Story by Aifheli Mudau
BULAWAYO – STARBRITE Season Eight winner and apocalyptic rock star Mpumelelo Dube, popularly known as HiRev Rockstar, is causing a stir in the local music scene with the release of his latest single, Yaphela Imali Yami.
Renowned for blending rock, jazz, and Afropop into a distinct musical soundscape, HiRev has collaborated with some of Bulawayo’s most talented rap artists, The Dawn and Sky, and acclaimed producer Sad Soul to produce this powerful new track.
“There are a couple of interesting tracks, including Yaphela Imali Yami, and there is also an album coming out with songs like Panama, which is a fusion of rock and jazz. Everybody can take something from that sound,” he said.
A self-proclaimed apocalyptic rock star, HiRev uses artistic biblical narratives to craft songs that speak to current realities. His recent work aims to instil hope in those who may have lost direction in life.
“From Starbrite, I learnt a lot and part of it was fusing who I am as a person with my music, and also singing about biblical narratives, particularly from the book of Revelation, in a way that people can relate to in this day and age.”
With a music career spanning over two decades, HiRev boasts two albums, three EPs, and numerous hit singles, including Missing and Rumpampa.
