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You cannot talk about music in Southern Africa without mentioning the name of Wallace Chirumuko—affectionately known by his legion of fans as Winky D, Di Bigman.
Winky D, born Wallace Chirumuko, came into this world 40 years ago in the densely populated township of Kuwadzana, Harare. Just like any other ghetto youth, Winky grew up with dreams—to escape poverty, to live a better life, to one day live a soft life. He began singing songs that encouraged young people to work hard for themselves, to uplift their lives, and not to wait around to be spoon-fed.
Hit after hit, Winky D dominated the airwaves and collected accolades from across Africa. He became the voice of reason. But it was when he started singing against corruption and the oppressive government of Zimbabwe that he truly became the darling of the people—a voice for the voiceless.
Wounded by his bold, thought-provoking lyrical power, the Zimbabwean regime began banning him from performing publicly—using the same tactics they once used on the legendary Thomas Mapfumo, who was eventually forced into exile and now resides in the United States of America.
Winky D resonates deeply with the oppressed. In South Africa, his spirit reminds us of the late Lucky Dube. In Jamaica, he carries echoes of the late great Bob Marley. His music is not just sound—it is a movement, a mirror, and a message.
