Bulawayo’s own rapper, Nkanyiso Moyo, famously known as Guluva Se7en, continues to bring pride to the city as his celebrated track City of Kings has been chosen as the official theme song for this year’s Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF).
The song, featured on his 2014 breakthrough album Colour of Dreams, is a powerful lyrical homage to Bulawayo’s rich heritage, recognising it as Zimbabwe’s cultural capital and a place of royalty.
Interestingly, City of Kings wasn’t initially created with BAF in mind.
“When Lady Tshawe (festival director) heard the song, she loved it,” said Guluva Se7en. “The song is still relevant today, even though it's 10 years old. It's not about me; it’s about the city. It speaks of the neighbourhoods, iconic places, and legendary names in the city. I thank BAF for recognising my old song and rejuvenating my career.”
Colour of Dreams marked a significant moment in Guluva Se7en’s career, earning him several accolades: he won Best Newcomer at the Zimbabwe Hip-Hop Awards (2015) and received nominations for Best Album at the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards (2015) and Best Newcomer at the Midlands Music Awards (2015).
