Takawira Dapi
ZIMDANCEHALL sensation Freeman, born Sylvester Chizanga, recently released pulsating music videos for his latest project, “Me vs Me”.
However, these visuals, some of which were filmed in South Africa, have sparked controversy and speculation.
One track in particular, “Wenyama”, has drawn significant attention due to its apparent exploration of crime and hate. In the video are chains, loads of cash, thugs and guns.
This theme seems to align with Freeman’s previous work, which often delves into the world of cops and robbers.
For instance, his 2021 track “Robbery”, off the album with a similar title, explicitly explores criminal themes.
Freeman’s recent appearance in Nutty O’s “Jegera” music video, alongside Master H, both dressed in police uniforms, has further fuelled the debate.
The singer’s association with controversial figures has also intensified scrutiny.
Last year, Freeman was questioned by law-enforcement authorities regarding his connection to armed robbers, following the death of socialite and music promoter Godknows Machingura.
Machingura, who was believed to be part of a cross-border robbery ring, was gunned down by police in Harare.
Previously, Freeman was also photographed with one of the three armed robbers killed during a shoot-out in Chadcombe in 2021.
Despite these controversies, Freeman maintains that his interest in police and crime-related themes is purely artistic. While filming in South Africa, he dismissed any notion of a fixation on such subjects.
“I am not so passionate about robbery lyrical artistry; that sentiment is a bit far-fetched because it is not true,” said Freeman.
“I sang just one song regarding this concern (crime) in our lives. From there, I have never sung anything about robberies, I have never ever experienced any robbery and I have never been involved in any robbery case, conspiracy or even thought about it.”
The musician added that he was like any other artiste who sings about social ills within the community.
“We simply reflect public life, just like journalists do. If you report on a robbery case, does that mean you are involved in the robbery? No! That is simply journalism; it is the same case with artistes,” he said.
Freeman further explained the motivation behind one of the contentious tracks.
“The song was just a way of expressing the extremes I could go to if I want to please my woman, like when I sing ‘ . . . nyangwe ndiiswe mutirongo, kamudiro kandinokuita sandi kepondo’. It is just art.”
According to the singer, the South Africa video shoots cost at least US$7 000. Master H and Nutty O are part of the project.
“The latest offering explores themes of self-discovery and growth as this project is my most personal yet,” revealed the HKD Records boss.
He had a message for drug abusers: “Drugs are destroying the future of many youths and the world economy. Because of drugs, many youths now find themselves in prisons, some battling illnesses, domestic violence, accidents of all sorts, among many other misfortunes.”
Challenges, he said, are a part of life and should never be an excuse to abuse substances. He also encouraged youths to believe in themselves for them to succeed.
“My life journey has not been rosy, but music has always been my comforter. I faced many trials in my life, but due to my music passion, I kept on going.
“However, rising was not that much of a challenge back in the day because of less competition on the market. I dropped my debut song in 2009 and the following year I was already famous.
“But things have changed. It is now hard to remain at the top because of stiff competition from upcoming talents,” said the “Joina City” hitmaker.
Beyond his musical prowess, Freeman is a multifaceted individual with diverse interests.
Driven by a desire to empower emerging talent, he founded HKD Records, a platform for aspiring artistes. His passion for sports led him to establish Gallis FC, a social football club.
A dedicated fitness enthusiast, Freeman prioritises his well-being through daily gym sessions. He believes a clear mind and a healthy body are essential for maintaining his energetic stage presence.
When it comes to his personal life, Freeman is happily married to the supportive and down-to-earth Barbra Chinhema of the Moyo totem.
He values the traditional aspects of marriage and attributes his success to the unwavering support of his family.
“She is a very beautiful wife and this union has been my pillar,” he said.
The musician abstains from alcohol and smoking.
He is modest and avoids ostentatious displays of wealth. Instead, he encourages young people to focus on building sustainable futures through investments in income-generating projects and retirement planning.
“I am not one of those artistes who posts achievements — latest cars or houses. That is not me. I am not bothered even if some say that I have borrowed something from someone; I simply live my life as I see fit,” said the HKD boss.
In 2019, he ventured into farming, a pursuit he envisions as a post-music career.
Freeman expresses his gratitude to his loyal fan base, MaGallis, for their “unwavering love and support”.
He acknowledges that their enthusiasm is the driving force behind his continued success.
