Zimbabwean Music Industry Celebrates Landmark Year of Global Recognition in 2025

Zimbabwe’s music industry enjoyed a landmark year in 2025, with local artists achieving chart success, international awards and global recognition across major digital and awards platforms (image source)

HARARE — Zimbabwe’s music industry recorded one of its strongest years in 2025, as local artists achieved unprecedented commercial success, international recognition and major award wins and nominations, underscoring the sector’s growing global relevance.

Throughout the year, leading acts including Jah Prayzah, Holy Ten, Master H, Nyasha David and Oriyano dominated digital platforms such as YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music. Their releases consistently trended locally while drawing significant audiences across Southern Africa and the diaspora, highlighting Zimbabwe’s expanding musical export reach. Standout tracks included Jah Prayzah’s Ruzhowa and Ndini Mukudzeyi, Oriyano’s Areka and Master H’s Haudi Kudiwa, all of which generated millions of streams and boosted live performance demand.

The year also proved pivotal for emerging talent. Artists such as Nashie Zim, Nisha T and Tamy Moyo broke into mainstream charts and gained industry recognition, reflecting a deepening talent pool and growing appetite for diverse genres spanning Afro-pop, hip hop and contemporary gospel.

Zimbabwe’s international profile was further elevated through prestigious global accolades. The compilation album Roots Rocking Zimbabwe secured a nomination at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, bringing renewed attention to the country’s musical heritage. Zimbabwean producers Bantu and Dr Chaii were also recognised for their work on Burna Boy’s album No Sign of Weakness, linking local talent to one of Africa’s most prominent global artists.

On the awards circuit, Holy Ten won Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist at the African Entertainment Awards USA, while Oriyano was named Rising Star of the Year. Gospel artist Dorcas Moyo added to the milestones by winning Africa Indigenous Gospel Artist of the Year and the People’s Choice Award at the CLIMA Africa Awards.

Industry analysts attribute the success to improved digital distribution, higher production standards and increased cross-border collaboration. They say music is increasingly emerging as a viable export sector with potential to contribute to economic growth, youth employment and cultural diplomacy.

From chart-topping releases to international acclaim, 2025 has firmly positioned Zimbabwe’s music industry as a rising force on the global stage, demonstrating that local sounds can resonate well beyond national borders.