From the dusty mining settlement of Patchway on the outskirts of Kadoma to the iconic recording booths of Mbare, Zimdancehall artiste Nesbert Chiwetu, popularly known as Nizzola, is steadily carving out his space in Zimbabwe’s competitive music industry.
Based nearly 20 kilometres from Kadoma town, the rising chanter is proving that talent, purpose and persistence can shine far beyond the bright lights of Harare.
Every artiste needs a name that carries identity and intent. For Nesbert Chiwetu, the name Nizzola was born naturally from his given name and has since grown into a brand.
“Nizzola was coined from Nesbert,” he explained. “I decided to use it as a stage name to represent the brand I’m building.”
Growing up in Kadoma’s gold-rich mining community shaped both his worldview and his music.
Life in Patchway exposed him to the daily struggles, triumphs and moral dilemmas faced by ordinary people — themes that now define his sound.
“My daily experiences influenced my desire to write for the youths and speak about everyday life,” Nizzola said.
“The spark for music was always in me. I’ve always had a deep desire to deliver messages that speak to everyone, including the elderly.”
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In an industry often driven by shock value and explicit content, Nizzola has deliberately taken a different path.
His music prioritises substance, relatability and clean storytelling.
“The Nizzola sound carries good messages that relate to daily life. It’s music you can listen to with anyone,” he said.
A former Kwayedza Secondary School student, Nizzola has built a growing catalogue of songs that blend social commentary, spirituality and personal reflection. Tracks such as Ndine Nhoroondo, Kudenga kune Show and Mwari Havatonge saSabhuku have earned him recognition beyond his hometown.
His latest single, Mwari Havatonge saSabhuku (God does not rule like a village head), delivers a bold spiritual message, reminding listeners that divine authority rises above human hierarchies and earthly gatekeepers.
“God is above all situations and cannot be bribed or influenced,” Nizzola explained.
Another standout track, Ndine Nhoroondo, is an emotional tribute to a close friend’s upbringing, chronicling the hardships of growing up in a mining community. Fans have praised the song for its honesty and raw storytelling.
Kudenga kune Show, meanwhile, showcases Nizzola’s lighter side — a heartfelt and comical tribute to the late Zimdancehall icon Soul Jah Love.
Musically, Nizzola draws inspiration from local heavyweight Killer T, whom he regards as a lifelong role model, while Jamaican dancehall star Mavado influences his international sound.
Currently, the 29-year-old is working with producer Lino in Mbare, where he continues to sharpen his craft. While his discography currently consists of singles, plans for a debut album are already in motion.
“I’m targeting 2026 for my first album,” he said.
Like many emerging artistes, Nizzola faces significant challenges, chief among them limited finances, lack of local studios and piracy.
“Recording costs are a major setback. There are no professional studios in Kadoma, so travelling to Harare is expensive. Piracy also robs us of our hard work,” he said.
Despite the obstacles, his music is gaining traction in Patchway, Kadoma, Gokwe and Sanyati — a reception that continues to fuel his ambition.
Looking ahead, Nizzola’s vision stretches beyond local fame.
“I want to reach the level where artists like Killer T operate. I want to become an international artist who markets Zimbabwean music to the world,” he said.
A collaboration with Killer T remains a dream firmly within his sights.
“He’s more than just a musician to me — he’s a blueprint. Working with him would be massive,” Nizzola said.
