Winky D
Zimbabwean reggae-dancehall artist
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Wallace Chirumiko (born 1 February 1983), known professionally as Winky D, is a Zimbabwean reggae-dancehall artist. He is popularly known as "The Big Man" (stylized as "Di Bigman") and also referred to as "Gafa". His music often provides social commentary about Zimbabwean society.
Winky D | |
|---|---|
Winky D performing in 2025 | |
| Background information | |
| Born | Wallace Chirumiko February 1, 1983 |
| Genres | Dancehall, Reggae, Zimdancehall |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Years active | 2004–present |
| Labels | Vigilance Music, Independent |
| Website | www.winkydonline.com |
Early life and career
As a teenager, Winky D began showcasing his music at various local events and concerts. At the age of 16, he participated in the Ghetto Lane Clashes, a series of DJ battles designed to showcase up-and-coming artists. Over time, he earned the nickname 'Wicked DeeJay', which was eventually shortened to Winky D. Recently, Winky D has shifted his focus to being the voice of the underprivileged in Zimbabwe and has been an advocate against drug addiction.[1]
Music career
Winky D was among the artists featured in the Southern Africa Music Airwaves (SAMA) Festival in 2009. He has released multiple studio albums and toured in the United Kingdom, United States, Asia, and South Africa.[2]
In 2012, Winky D became an advocate for male circumcision. As a call to action for his fans, he and Albert Nyoni (Vanyoni Beats) released a track entitled "If you know you are a champion get circumcised". The song was launched in Harare on 19 January 2012.[3]
In 2023, Winky D launched his studio album Eureka Eureka. Some songs from the album, especially "Ibotso" and "Dzimba Dzemabwe", provide commentary on social ills in Zimbabwean society, in particular corruption and the struggles faced by young people. In response, a pressure group affiliated with the ruling party ZANU–PF called for Winky D's music to be banned in Zimbabwe. In March 2023, the Zimbabwe Republic Police shut down a Winky D concert in Chitungwiza just as he began to sing the song "Ibotso", leading to widespread condemnation.[4]
On 31 December 2023, he filled the Harare International Conference Center (HICC) for his Ghettocracy show. This event served as a celebration of his 20-year journey in the music industry.[5]
In early 2025, Winky D released the EP Pabho, which quickly gained popularity and trended on YouTube. The six-track project includes songs like "Siya", which touch on themes of perseverance, resilience, and social justice.[6]
Controversies
In December 2024, Winky D faced a significant setback when his annual New Year's Eve concert at the HICC was canceled. Despite securing the venue as early as May 2024, the management prioritized another event organized by gospel musician Everton Mlalazi, reportedly backed by businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei. This decision led to public outcry and accusations of political interference.[7]
Feuds
Winky D had 'beef' with then-dancehall artists such as Badman and Daddy D. They engaged in lyrical battles, from which he emerged as a victor. Winky D, alongside The General and Sniper Storm, were scheduled to perform as opening acts for Mavado. He has since called for peace among the Zimdancehall artists through his songs and interviews.[1]
Discography
- War
- The Devotee
- Igofigo – The Unthinkable
- PaKitchen
- Life Yangu
- Gafa Life Kickstape
- Gafa Futi
- Gombwe: Chiextra
- Njema
- Eureka Eureka
- Pabho
Awards
- Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa - All Africa Music Awards 2022
- People's Choice Award - National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) 2020
- Best Dancehall Artist - African Entertainment Awards USA 2020 [8]
- Best African Dancehall Entertainer - International Reggae and World Music Awards 2023 [9]
- Best Album - Njema - Zimdancehall Awards 2020 [10]
- People's Choice Award - National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) 2024