Top Zimdancehall songs of 2023

This year has also seen new artists emerging in the popular urban genre, contrary to 2022 when critics said it was starting to die out. Besides Winky D, artists such as Qounfuzed, Freeman HKD, Enzo Ishal, Shashl, Nicky Genius and Nutty O also made big contributions to the Zimdancehall scene, with some winning top awards and performing outside the country.

Our Southern Africa desk has compiled a playlist of the most popular Zimdancehall songs of 2023. The below playlist will be updated periodically as new hits are released throughout the year. Enjoy!

Ibotso by Winky D ft. Holy Ten

‘Ibotso’ is a commentary on Zimbabwe’s social ills, off Winky D’s Eureka Eureka album. The speaks about social injustice, economic hardship and government corruption. The instrumentation is by Jusa Dementor.

Makanonoka by Nutty O

After achieving a staggering 30 million streams worldwide for his debut album Mustard Seed', Nutty O upped the ante with ‘Makanonoka’. The song was produced by DJ Tamuka. Using Rayo Beats’ mixing and mastering skills, Nutty O tells his haters that he is untouchable and that his success is unparalleled.

Handidi by Enzo Ishal

This is one of the top Zimdancehall songs topping the local chats. It was produced by Cymplex Music. In the song, Enzo Ishal expresses his desire to be free of things that bother him.

XYZ by Winky D ft. Qounfuzed

There is a message in this song about moving on from broken relationships and not being bitter when love goes south. ‘XYZ’’s sounds were produced by Jusa Dementor, Layan Souljah and Oskid, with guitars by Kelvin Kudakwashe Mucheche.

Dzimba Dzemabwe by Winky D ft. Shingai

A heated debate broke out on social media platforms over this song. Mbuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi, two First Chimurenga heroes of the 1890s, are represented by Winky D and Shingai in the song, which is off the Eureka Eureka album. Throughout the track, the two artists seek to present the two historical figures’ positive characteristics, which they believe are lacking in today’s storylines.

Handizive by Enzo Ishal and Kikky Badass

An argument over text messages found on a phone is the subject of this track. In the video, Kikky Badass confronts Enzo Ishal and asks him how he could cheat on a beautiful woman like her. The video for the song was directed by Lyteezw.

Kumusoro by Nicky Genius ft. Winky D

‘Kumusoro’ is a touching song off Nicky Genius latest album Ndokutenda Nei. Winky D is featured on the this track, which discusses life’s obstacles and struggles. It was produced by Nicky Genius and mixed and mastered by Waynebeats.

Nyaya Yangu by Tocky Vibes

This song chronicles Tocky Vibes’ continued quest for love. The song’s video was filmed in a rural setting.

High Grades by Winky D ft. Herman

This motivational song is off Winky D’s new album and was written to inspire students to remain focused on their studies.

Tears by Winky D ft. Anita Jackson

‘Tears’ is also off Winky D’s Eureka Eureka album and was produced by Oskid and Layan Souljah. With heavy beats, the song showcases Anita Jackson and Winky D’s lyrical abilities.

Vakomana VeDrip By Freeman HKD

‘Vakomana VeDrip’ is a hit off Freeman HKD’s David and Goliath album. It was produced and written by Movy D and Freeman HKD, respectively.

Riya Riya Riddim (various artists)

This heavy riddim features various Zimdancehall artists including Silent Killer, Boss Pumacol, Ndunge Yut, Ma9Nine and Kabhidha. It was produced by Chillspot DJs Levelz and Fantan.

Mhepo by Qounfuzed and Shashl

Shashl and Qounfuzed chronicle how external forces play an important role in destroying relationships. Mcdonald Sheldon and Baron Mkweza penned the song, which was produced by Charlie Kay and Majesty on Flex.

Nzungu by Qounfuzed

In this love story gone wrong, Nzungu depicts Qounfuzed’s experience of being duped by his lover. The song, which comes with an animated video, was produced by Majesty on Flex.

Body by Qounfuzed ft. Kikky Badass

This raunchy song was produced and mastered by KSG Di Don and composed by Mcdonald Sheldon.