Dino Sees Gary Tight’s Outburst as a Career Boost Amid Family Drama
Zimbabwean musician Dino has described the recent controversy involving Willom Tight’s son, Gary, as a blessing in disguise for his career. The drama erupted after Gary criticised Dino for performing the song “Chirangano” at the 24th National Arts Merit Awards without including his father, Willom Tight. The song, however, is officially owned by Dino, who collaborated with Willom, Rockford “Roki” Josphats, and Sarah Mwayera on the track. The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) confirmed that the rights belong to Dino, clarifying ownership and putting the dispute into perspective. Despite the social media uproar, Dino has chosen to focus on his solo projects, citing guidance from his personal advisor, Andrew Muchena, as pivotal in redirecting his energy toward career revival.
Following the incident, Dino announced that he has severed professional ties with the Tight family, stressing that his decision is motivated by career focus rather than personal animosity. He explained that the social media backlash has actually increased visibility for his work, with new inquiries and show bookings emerging after the controversy. Dino pointed out that many fans were unaware he had returned from South Africa and was actively working on his album with producer Gibson Makumbe. While he expressed disappointment that Gary has not publicly apologised, Dino clarified that he holds no personal grudge against him. He reiterated that his priority is his own music and career development, leaving past disputes behind.
Dino also detailed his history of generosity toward Gary, noting that over half of the songs Gary performs at his shows, including “Chirangano” and “Bhazi,” were composed by Dino. He mentioned that he never raised objections, even when Gary remixed his song “Ndichakumirira” with Munya Viali. Regarding Willom Tight’s compositions, Dino explained that Gary typically only performs “Wekumaruzevha” while the rest remain Dino’s works, and he has never objected to that either. Dino emphasised his willingness to support Willom, noting that he would gladly watch him perform Dino’s songs at major events like the BET Awards, highlighting his desire to avoid unnecessary drama.
The musician stressed that the lack of apology from both Gary and Willom leaves him with no choice but to concentrate on his own work. He described himself as mature enough to understand that young people sometimes overreact without fully assessing situations. Dino maintained that he will not chase anyone for reconciliation and will focus on advancing his career, which he views as unaffected by minor controversies. He underlined the importance of prioritising career progress over disputes, insisting that the social media row, while disruptive, has ultimately generated attention and opportunities for his music.
Both Gary and Willom Tight were largely unreachable for comment during the week. Gary’s phone is reportedly being answered by his wife, who said he “has left his phone behind,” while Willom is occupied with tobacco farming in Headlands. Despite the silence from the Tight family, Dino remains resolute in turning the incident into a positive development, using the increased exposure to reassert his presence in the Zimbabwean music scene. For Dino, the controversy serves as a reminder that challenges can become opportunities when approached with focus and professionalism, allowing him to advance his career while maintaining a principled stance.
