Harare – Rapper Holy Ten has launched a blistering attack on the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and its CEO, Napoleon Nyanhi, claiming he is “bigger” than the National Arts Merits Awards (NAMA) and demanding Nyanhi’s resignation.
The outspoken artist expressed his outrage on Instagram, accusing the NAMA organisers of failing to recognise his significant contributions to the Zimbabwean music scene in the past year. Holy Ten believes his work in 2024 overshadowed that of established artists such as Jah Prayzah and Winky D, and that he deserved to be rewarded at the NAMA ceremony.
Despite producing a successful album featuring hit songs like “Ndotokuda” and “Kilimanjaro” last year, Holy Ten did not receive a single NAMA nomination, a snub that has clearly stung the rapper.
In an explosive outburst, Holy Ten questioned the validity and relevance of the awards, stating: “I did more than Jah, Winky D, Nyasha David, and that other new skinny David, and you still didn’t talk about the boy.”
He went on to directly address Napoleon Nyanhi, saying: “NAMAS are just BUL* SHI*. Napoleon, hamuzvigone izvi just leave it. If it was R Peels complaining then maybe you could’ve said kurwadziwa nekusa winner. Dawg you didn’t give Holy Ten anything, not even a nomination. Which music ikurira bro?”
The rapper later amplified his grievances in an Instagram Live session, further expressing his deep frustration and disappointment.
“I am bigger than the NAMAs, honestly how could they not award me of all people with how much l offered ya’ll,” Holy Ten declared. “I am so hurt I don’t want to lie and, to Napoleon, Bro l have more money than you and I’m way better than you, put some respect on my name.”
Holy Ten also suggested that the lack of recognition could have a negative impact on young people, saying: “This is why most youths end up doing drugs, I don’t want to lie, I am so hurt . I submitted my projects from last year and none of my work was recognised. As a country you guys don’t love me or respect my work cause this doesn’t make sense. I’m hurt.”
The rapper’s outburst has sparked a heated debate within the Zimbabwean arts community, with many questioning the NAMA selection process and the criteria used to determine nominations and awards. Holy Ten’s supporters have rallied behind him, echoing his sentiments that he was unfairly overlooked. The NACZ is yet to respond to Holy Ten’s accusations and calls for Nyanhi’s resignation.
