One Big Party 2025: Winky D and Jah Prayzah Ignite Harare on New Year’s Eve
Harare came alive on the final night of 2025 as Zimbabwe’s music titans, Winky D and Jah Prayzah, headlined the highly anticipated One Big Party at Glamis Arena. The event, organised by Chipaz Promotions in partnership with COCAZ, attracted thousands of revellers eager to welcome 2026 with a mix of dancehall and Afro-fusion sounds.
Originally scheduled for the Hockey Stadium at the National Sports Stadium, the venue was moved to Glamis Arena to accommodate high ticket demand and protect against unpredictable weather, with tents ensuring the show continued uninterrupted. The night opened with energising performances from supporting artists, including Killer T, whose high-energy set set the tone, and Feli Nandi, whose soulful delivery added depth.
Jah Prayzah took the stage first, captivating the audience with polished stagecraft and signature hits. As midnight approached, chants of “Baba” signalled the crowd’s anticipation for Winky D. When he appeared, the arena erupted. His raw energy and relatable lyrics had fans singing and dancing, turning the performance into a collective celebration. Social media quickly hailed him as Zimbabwe’s greatest artist, while playful comparisons to Jah Prayzah highlighted their contrasting styles.
The night demonstrated unity within the local music scene. Jah Prayzah and Winky D shared the stage in a moment that felt cultural rather than competitive. Prayzah delivered a flawless, professional set with a tight band and layered harmonies, while Winky D brought urgency and emotional intensity, making the audience feel every word. Both styles were celebrated, but the emotional peak of the evening belonged to Winky D.
The shared performance reignited the ongoing debate over who dominates Zimbabwean music. Winky D, born Wallace Chirumiko, is known for conscious dancehall that addresses social issues, youth struggles, and political corruption. His tracks like Ibotso and Ngirozi resonate deeply with young audiences and street communities. Jah Prayzah, born Mukudzeyi Mukombe, blends traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with modern Afro-pop, creating music that appeals to a wider demographic and projects Zimbabwean culture internationally. His collaborations with artists like Davido and Diamond Platnumz and albums such as Mdhara Vachauya and Gwara highlight his global reach.
Fans of Winky D are drawn to his boldness and social commentary, while Jah Prayzah attracts audiences seeking melodic, culturally rich experiences. The contrast between the two artists underscores Zimbabwe’s diverse music landscape. Choosing between them depends on whether listeners value street-level storytelling and social awareness or polished, globally resonant cultural expression.
One Big Party ended as a triumph of production, culture, and music, demonstrating that Zimbabwean artistry can unite audiences while offering a platform for both raw energy and refined performance. The event set a benchmark for future collaborations and proved that the nation’s music scene remains vibrant and influential.
