Things have been going up for rapper and poet Michael Chiunda ever since he changed his stage name from Meyniak to his government name. He has been dropping new material, flexing his spoken word chops, throwing his own versatile concerts, reuniting with old collaborators, daring the mainstream and overall just been looking healthy.
His fans — affectionately called the Meyniaks — have been eager for his growth and visibility, and it looks like that’s going to happen sooner than later. Word reaching us is that “The Story Of Lochnation” wordsmith is taking his talents to Play by Play Inc, a sports, music and entertainment company that specialises in brand management.
In a statement to the press, Play by Play said they were “undoubtedly pleased and are ready to try work hand to hand with brand Michael Chiunda through honesty, transparency and growth”. The incorporated company added that Michael, who hasn’t signed up with a manager in a long time, was dazzled by their vision and unique approach to brand management.
“It had been a while since I signed up with a manager, I’m excited to be signing with them,” said Michael.
On the other hand, Play by Play said as a stable they have done all it takes to have someone like Michael writhing their ranks because of his prowess as a creative and an artist.
“It is an auspicious occasion for us to be working with one of the most unique and talented artists there are at present. Michael will definitely turn heads. Keep an ear to the ground; Michael will not disappoint. Tune in and press play,” said the brand handlers.
A fresh foot on the scene, Play by Play is fast establishing its roots in the entertainment and sports sector in the Southern Africa region. Locally, they have worked with enthusiasts like singers Frya, Melyssa, rapper KapCity, Zimbabwean rugby captain Hilton Mudariki, Zimbabwean cricketer Ryan Burl and are also owners of Harare league hockey team Play by Play Hounds.
Beyond Zimbabwe, they have worked with musician Malika from Zambia and are in the pipeline to announce a few more people to their stable while collaborating with corporates and sponsors in the discipline of sports and showbiz.
For Michael Chiunda, the deal comes a few days after he recently headlined the star-studded Pungwe Volume 2 project along with the likes of famed music producer Rymez, Soko Matemai, Gze, Nutty O, Simba Tagz, Thaiwanda, Shashl, Chengeto, Sylent Nqo and Garry Mapanzure.
It appears he had a plan all along, and it’s working out perfectly.
