Emegy Slyvesta Chizanga (Freeman) HKD: Zimbabwe’s Ghetto Icon and Music Trailblazer
From the football pitches of Bindura to the international music stage, the journey of Freeman HKD is a story of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. Born Emergy Slyvesta Chizanga, Freeman rose from humble beginnings to become one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated music icons.
The initials “HKD” stand for Hatimire Kusimbisa Dangerzone, a motto meaning “We don’t stop pushing the Dangerzone movement,” reflecting the energy and determination that defined his early music career with the Dangerzone crew. Before breaking into music, Freeman was a talented footballer for Mwana Africa F.C. and also worked as a butcher to support himself.
Freeman’s breakout into the music industry came with his 2010 hit “Joina City”, which quickly established him as a household name. Today, he continues to inspire fans both in Zimbabwe and across the globe, proving that with dedication and hard work, dreams can truly be realized.
From the Pitch to the Studio
Born on June 22, 1988, in Bindura, Emergy Slyvesta Chizanga was the last born in a family of six. He attended Nyarukunda Primary School and completed his O' Levels at Chipadze High School. It was here, as part of the school choir, that the first seeds of his musical journey were planted.
Before he was a musician, Freeman was a talented footballer. His skill on the pitch earned him a spot on his high school's senior team at a very young age, which is where he earned the nickname "Freeman." His passion for the game saw him play for Mwana Africa in Zimbabwe’s first division league.
Noticing that his soccer career was not progressing due to poor funding, Freeman made a pivotal decision. At 18, he worked at an abattoir, saving the little he earned to record his first song, "Unondipa Rudo," in November 2009. He moved to Harare to stay with his brother and began to seriously pursue his musical talent.
The Rise of a Dancehall Star
His biggest break came with the release of "Joina City" in 2010. The song became a national anthem, dominating the airwaves, parties, and every emergency taxi in the city. This hit propelled him into the mainstream, leading to his first major public performances.
In 2011, Freeman released his debut album, "Tapinda MuStaera." To date, he has produced numerous studio albums, solidifying his status as one of the most consistent giants of Zim Dancehall.
- Tapinda Mustaera
- The Last Man Standing
- New Chapta
- Varidzi Vezvinhu
- Mangoma Ihobho
- Top Striker
- Freeman and Friends
- Gango
Global Reach & Guiding Philosophy
Freeman's music has taken him across the globe. He was the first Zim Dancehall artist to perform in China and has had shows in Canada, England, Australia, and South Africa. He has shared the stage with international heavyweights like Movado and Capleton and collaborated with famed Jamaican artist Antony-B.
Freeman feels he has not yet reached his full potential and remains a humble chanter. He advises the youth with his personal philosophy:
"Do not go where the path may lead, instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail."
This mindset, combined with his relentless work ethic—summed up by his motto, "I WILL NOT WATCH THE CLOCK, I WILL DO WHAT IT DOES, I WILL KEEP GOING"—has made him a true ghetto icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Freeman HKD's real name?
His real name is Emegy Slyvester Chizanga.
What does "HKD" stand for?
The initials stand for "Hatimire Kusimbisa Dangerzone," a motto meaning "We don't stop pushing the danger zone movement."
What did Freeman do before music?
He was a footballer for Mwana Africa F.C. and also worked as a butcher.
Is Freeman a consistent artist?
Yes, he is widely regarded as one of the most consistent Zimdancehall artists, releasing numerous albums and hit songs every year since the early 2010s.
What are some of his most popular songs?
Some of his well-known tracks include "Joina City," "Ngaibake," "Man to Man," "Muchandinzwawo," and "Pombi".
Does he own a record label?
Yes, he founded his own label, HKD Records, in 2012. It has produced many popular artists.
Is Freeman HKD married?
Yes, he has been married to Barbra Chinhema since 2012 and prioritizes his family.
Is he still involved in football?
Yes, he founded two social soccer teams, Gallis FC and Gallis Legends, for which he serves as a captain and still plays recreationally.
Has Freeman HKD faced controversies?
Yes. In January 2024, he was questioned by Zimbabwean police for his association with alleged armed robbers. He denied any criminal involvement, and no charges were filed against him.
How has he handled stage incidents?
After a fan was mistreated by security at one of his concerts, Freeman publicly apologized and later invited the same fan on stage to make it up to him.
David (Sales)