Zimpapers Logo

Winky D

Brenda Phiri Entertainment Reporter
Major players in the Zim Dancehall fraternity have joined forces to produce a 12-track HIV and AIDS awareness album entitled Possitive Riddim that was officially launched last week.
The project that was made possible by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief and Jibilika Dance Trust.
Winky D, Tocky Vibes, Tally B, Freeman, Shinsoman, Killer T, Platnum Prince, Spiderman, Spartan X, Tiva Styles and Jay Tee are the artistes that have come up with the compilation.

Speaking during the launch, the Jibilika dance trust projects director Plot Mhako said the project was aimed at using music to educate youths on the disease.
“Zim dancehall has over the few years risen to dizzy heights creating frenzy across the country and beyond. It is influencing youth behaviour. Young people listen more when spoken to in their language. Zim dancehall is the youth language in Zimbabwe,” he said.

Mhako also explained their choice of artistes saying they had strategically selected influential artistes across different areas.
“We want the music to appeal to all sectors. The artistes have undergone training and the efforts will be continuous as the organisers strive to thoroughly educate these educators.

“The artistes featured in the music project will take turns to engage with students and youths in communities and communicate on HIV and Aids.
“We realise that without access to the right information and services, young people will continue to be exposed to more dangers of contracting sexually transmitted infections and the deadly virus,” he said.

While some of the artistes did not attend the launch, the likes of Tally B, Platnum Prince, Juwela, Tiva Styles and Spartan X pledged with commitment to the project.
Platinum Prince took it a step further by declaring that they had all reformed and would desist from spreading destructive messages to the youths through music.

“Wisdom comes with maturity and when an artiste is younger they are bound to put out content that is not good. This was the case with some of us but things have since changed as we now know better. I want my fans to increase and not decrease,” he said.

The programme is part of the Step up to HIV campaign. It features songs that address a wide range of issues relating to HIV and Aids and raises awareness on safe behavioural practices to prevent the spread of HIV.