Zimbabwean DJ Spunj Embarks Taking Harare Sound to the World

From Harare to the World: Spunj Is Redefining Zimbabwe’s Amapiano Sound

Harare, Zimbabwe – From the vibrant nightlife of Harare to the global stage, Zimbabwean DJ and producer Spunj, born Panashe Mbanje, is on a mission to amplify his city’s sound and place Zimbabwean amapiano and dance music firmly on the map.

With his breakout single “Pakawanda” and a series of major collaborations on the horizon, Spunj is redefining what it means to be a DJ from Zimbabwe in 2025.

The Rise of a Nightlife Pioneer

For years, Spunj has been a familiar name in Harare’s top nightlife venues from Pablo’z to Karma where his high-energy, open-format sets have become the heartbeat of the city’s party scene. Blending amapiano, Afrobeats, and soulful house, his performances are known for both rhythm and emotion.

But as the dancefloors filled, Spunj’s creative ambitions grew.

“I love dance music, I love amapiano and 3-step. Zimbabweans love it too,” says Spunj. “We just haven’t had a child of the soil pushing that sound the way our neighbours are.”

That vision came to life through “Pakawanda”, his breakout single featuring Denzel a smooth, spirit-infused amapiano anthem that captures Spunj’s distinctive sound. Rooted in Southern African rhythms and layered with mbira-inspired melodies and Shona vocals, the track is both a celebration and a statement: Zimbabwe’s heartbeat meets the global amapiano wave.

From the Football Pitch to the DJ Booth

Before the bright lights of Harare’s nightlife, Spunj was chasing a completely different dream — football.

“I was supposed to sign in Europe, but COVID-19 ended those plans,” he recalls. “I felt stuck.”

A chance opportunity from his cousin, fellow DJ Danny Vibes, changed everything. “He threw me behind the decks at Kirytan, and I didn’t drown,” Spunj laughs. “My first $30 tip made me realise I could really do this.”

Since that moment, Spunj has built a reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s most versatile DJs commanding stages with electrifying performances and a deep emotional connection to his audience. Now, his evolution from DJ to producer marks a bold new chapter defined by creativity, faith, and purpose.

Faith, Rhythm, and Reflection

Faith sits at the core of Spunj’s artistry literally and spiritually. The word “Faith” is tattooed on his neck, a constant reminder of his roots and resilience.

“My mom always tells me, ‘Use your talent to minister to someone; you never know who’s listening,’” he says. “So even when I make music for the dancefloor, it has to speak to the soul.”

This fusion of spirituality and groove has become his signature. His remixes of Takura’s “Hazvireve Rudo Handina” and Janet Manyowa’s “Somlandela” have become underground favourites soulful, gospel-inspired blends that prove house and amapiano can move both the body and the spirit.

A New Wave for Zimbabwean DJs

Spunj’s mission goes beyond personal success. He wants to redefine how DJs are viewed in Zimbabwe not just as entertainers, but as full-fledged artists and producers.

“In South Africa, you have Kabza De Small and Kelvin Momo headlining with their own music,” he explains. “In Zimbabwe, DJs aren’t valued like that yet. I want to help change that.”

Watching Kabza De Small perform “Imithandazo” at Carpe Diem Festival was a defining moment for him.

“He turned the whole place into a praise session. That’s the energy I want people connecting spiritually through dance.”

What’s Next for Spunj

With upcoming collaborations featuring Takura, Janet Manyowa, Verseless, and Denzel, Spunj is preparing for a major run into 2026. His ultimate goal? To perform at Afro Nation and Zimfest, bringing the Zimbabwean amapiano sound to global audiences.

“I’ve closed my eyes and imagined it the crowd singing every word, volume down, that moment of connection. It’ll be spiritual and electric.”

The meaning of his breakout hit “Pakawanda” “it’s spread” perfectly captures where he stands today.

“That’s how I feel right now,” he smiles. “Like the sound, the vision, and the dream are spreading.”

About Spunj

Panashe “Spunj” Mbanje is a Zimbabwean DJ and producer known for fusing amapiano, Afrobeats, and soulful house with a uniquely Zimbabwean essence. His music explores the balance between faith and rhythm, spirit and sound, earning him recognition as one of Harare’s most exciting new music exports.