Holy Ten (Mukudzei Chitsama): Zimbabwe's Hip-Hop Voice of a Generation
Holy Ten (born Mukudzei Chitsama, November 18, 1998) is Zimbabwe's most influential hip-hop artist and social commentator. The Harare-born rapper, producer, and Samanyanga Sounds founder rose from humble beginnings at Speciss College - where he learned production from classmate JT in 2016 - to become the "Leader of the Youth" through viral hits like "Ndaremerwa" and "Ucharamba Uchipisa". Known as the "Speaker of the Truth" for his socially conscious lyrics, his career spans high-profile feuds, national recognition, and a recent public renewal that solidifies his place as Zimbabwe's hip-hop voice of a generation.
The Rise of a Zim Hip Hop Icon
Born in Harare on November 18, 1998, Mukudzei Chitsama's journey into music began unconventionally. While studying at Speciss College, he claimed to be a beat-maker simply to join a friend's group. With the help of a mentor named JT, he quickly learned music production and began recording his own tracks at the age of 18.
After releasing his debut project Suicide Notes in 2019, Holy Ten exploded onto the national scene in 2021 with his hit single "Ndaremerwa." The song's powerful social commentary and his unique deep voice resonated deeply with Zimbabwean youth, earning him nicknames like "Mujaya," "Leader of the Youth," and "Speaker of the Truth."
In 2021, Holy Ten founded his own record label, Samanyanga Sounds, to promote Zimbabwean hip hop. The label was instrumental in the rise of artists like Saintfloew, who was discovered through his viral "Gundamwenda" demo, and Michael Magz, with whom he would later release a collaborative album.
Musical Journey & Discography
Holy Ten has released a prolific number of projects, cementing his reputation as one of Zim hip-hop's most consistent artists. His official studio albums include:
- Suicide Notes (2019)
- Risky Life (2021)
- Energy (2022)
- The Book of Malachi (2023)
- New Bhundu Boyz (with Michael Magz) (2023)
- Risky Life 2 (2024)
- Proud Father (2024)
- Musoro weNzou (2025)
Throughout his career, Holy Ten has collaborated with prominent artists like Winky D, EXQ, Takura, ProBeatz, and Saintfloew. His work has earned him significant recognition:
- At the 2023 Zimhiphop Awards, he was the biggest winner with three awards: Best Male, Best Hip Hop Hustle, and People's Choice.
- In 2024, he won Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist at the 10th Annual African Entertainment Awards USA.
- His album Proud Father topped the Apple Music charts in Zimbabwe upon its release.
A Career Defined by Controversy
The "Ibotso" Controversy
In 2023, after featuring on Winky D's politically charged song "Ibotso," Holy Ten publicly disavowed the collaboration, claiming he was misled. The reversal drew widespread criticism and accusations that he was attempting to avoid political fallout.
Feuds with Other Artists
He has been involved in several high-profile public disputes, most notably with fellow rapper Voltz JT and dancehall artist Enzo Ishall. He also had a very public fallout with his former artist, Michael Magz, after their collaborative album.
Substance Abuse Allegations
In 2024, after collapsing on stage, Holy Ten faced accusations of drug use. He publicly shared negative test results for hard drugs but did not disclose the results for marijuana. He later challenged other artists to undergo similar testing.
Public Reception
His public image declined in 2024 after being booed at both the Unplugged Food Festival and the Zimdancehall Cup Clash, largely due to repeated online spats and criticisms of fellow artists.
Personal Life & Philosophy
In March 2023, Holy Ten paid lobola for his wife, Kimberly Chigubu, and they welcomed their son, Mukudzei Junior, soon after. Shortly after the marriage, his ex-girlfriend, Chelsea Tariro Hlomayi, publicly claimed he had fathered her son, which a DNA test later confirmed.
In September 2022, Holy Ten's friend and backing vocalist, Jay D (Nathan Marufu), tragically died following a car crash. A devastated Holy Ten paid tribute on social media and cancelled several performances in his honor.
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