Radio ban on singer for attacking government officials
The music of 56-year-old Sungura musician Hosiah Chipanga has been banned on national radio, Radio Zimbabwe (formerly Radio 2), according to the newspaper ZimDaily, skriver FREEMUSE i sit seneste elektroniske nyhedsbrev torsdag.
When Hosiah Chipanga released the controversial album “Hero Shoko”, his songs quickly hit the airwaves. But after a little while, and after a surprise song on President Mugabes birthday exposed top Zanu-PF officials corrupt activities, the album was blacklisted and pulled off air
His new and 20th album is laden with messages that attack the Zanu-PF regime.
“As you enter ZBC Radio Zimbabwe’s studios you are welcomed with posters written Hosiah Chipanga Prohibited Music. This reminds the DJs to censor themselves. Chipanga is the third victim of circumstances after Leonard Zhakata and Thomas Mapfumo whose catalogues are not wholly given airplay,” wrote the newspaper.
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Freemuse (FREEdom of MUSical Expression) is an international human rights organisation advocating freedom of expression for musicians and composers worldwide.