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Tafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter
Rising hip hop outfit Punchline Kings say the hit single “Gogogoi” which features Alvina is theirs, contrary to popular belief that it belongs to Alvina. This was said by the duo of Foster Tendai Ndaona and Ishmael Mafuka.“Yes, we worked with Alvina on the single ‘Gogogoi’, but the truth of the matter is that the song is actually ours. We decided to feature her (Alvina) after we met her in the studio while she was recording something. She also listened to our music and we were all impressed. We just clicked and are now tight music buddies,” said Ishmael, also known as Ishy X.

The 28-year-old rapper said their close relationship with Alvina was further strengthened by the fact that Alvina also decided to feature the same single on their new album.

“The good part about it is that Alvina then featured the single ‘Gogogoi’ on her album as a bonus track and this goes a long way in putting across a statement to people out there that as artistes we should be able to work together without harbouring any ill-feelings,” he said.

The success of the song has propelled the group to dizzy heights following recent indications that they might be bound for the United States sometime late next month (February).

“Our music was circulating on the internet and we also posted some of our performances on Youtube and someone in the United States was impressed by our visual performances and contacted us. So what this is that we might be heading to the United States end of February to represent Zimbabwe at a hip-hop festival to be held in Manhattan city,” explained Foster (22).

Foster said this was a chance for Zimbabweans to raise the country’s flag high and also learn a lot about the hip-hop movement from its exponents.

“Whatever we do, we do with a punch, with a Midas Touch. This is why we decided to call ourselves the Punchline Kings,” said Foster.

Added Ishy X: “We have been in the industry for some good ten years and with this US trip, we believe now is our time to shine.”

Punchline Kings evolved out of the streets of Avondale West after the pair hooked up and recorded a mix-tape “Avondale West Volume 1” that caused a lot of “noise” on the streets.

The duo said they derive their inspiration from parents as well as the emotions and feelings they go through.

“That’s why our lyrics are largely metaphorical. It is our dream to see good artistes out there who are being stifled claiming their rightful place in the music scene,” said Ishy X.

Punchline Kings have performed at the Zim Hip-Hop Awards (2013), 2013 Zi FM’s Big Brother Eviction Party, Alliance Francaise charity show as well as in various high schools.

When not doing music, Foster is into acting while Ishy X is a visual and graphic artist who likes drawing, canvas as well designing.