Holy Ten


Mukudzei Chitsama, known professionally as Holy Ten, is a Zimbabwean hip-hop artist, songwriter, and record producer. He gained national prominence in 2021 with the release of his hit single "Ndaremerwa" and has since become one of Zimbabwe's most influential and controversial hip-hop voices.

Early life and education

Holy Ten was born in Harare, Zimbabwe. He attended Speciss College, where he developed an interest in music. Claiming to be a beat-maker to join a local group, he learned music production from a mentor named JT and began recording at the age of 18.

Music career

Holy Ten released his debut project Suicide Notes in 2019. He rose to national fame in 2021 with the release of "Ndaremerwa". He followed with a series of albums and EPs:
  • Suicide Notes
  • Risky Life
  • Energy
  • Book of Malachi
  • New Bhundu Boyz
  • Risky Life 2
  • Proud Father
  • Musoro weNzou
  • Risky Interludes
In June 2025, Holy Ten released his seventh solo album, Musoro weNzou, marking a significant return after a two-month hiatus from social media. The album, whose title translates to "Elephant's Head", symbolizes strength and introspection. Prior to its release, the album experienced a tumultuous rollout, including an initial announcement, delays, and eventual surprise release.
The ten-track project features collaborations with artists such as Feli Nandi, Saintfloew, Nyasha David, Jake Miles, and Scrip Mula. Notably, the track "Mwana Wenyu" reunites Holy Ten with Saintfloew, despite their previous public disagreements. The album delves into themes of mental health, personal growth, and societal challenges, showcasing a matured and reflective side of Holy Ten's artistry.

Samanyanga Sounds

In 2021, Holy Ten founded Samanyanga Sounds, a record label promoting Zimbabwean hip hop. Artists signed included:
  • Saintfloew, discovered through the viral demo of "Gundamwenda".
  • Michael Magz, with whom he released New Bhundu Boyz before their public fallout.
  • Mr Candy, a lesser-known signee featured on collaborative works.

Controversies

Political affiliations

In 2023, Holy Ten contributed to Winky D's politically sensitive song "Ibotso", later disavowing the collaboration and claiming he was misled. His walk-back was seen by many as an attempt to avoid political fallout.

Personal life

In March 2023, Holy Ten paid lobola for his wife Kimberly Chigubu. Soon after, ex-girlfriend Chelsea Tariro Hlomayi claimed he had fathered her son. A DNA test later confirmed paternity.

Feuds

  • With Michael Magz: A highly public split from Samanyanga Sounds. Magz claimed he quit; Holy Ten claimed he was dropped.
  • With DJ Ollah 7: Holy Ten’s interview triggered DJ Ollah 7’s cyberbullying arrest after inflammatory remarks were aired.
  • With Mama Vee: Comedian Mama Vee filed a defamation suit after being insulted on the same podcast.

Public incidents

In 2024, Holy Ten was booed at both the Unplugged Food Festival and the Zimdancehall Cup Clash. His public image declined over repeated online spats and criticisms of fellow artists.

Death of Jay D

In September 2022, his friend and backing vocalist Jay D died following a car crash. Holy Ten paid tribute via social media and cancelled several performances. He also realized a single, Dai Zvaibvira, as a tribute to him.

Substance abuse allegations

In 2024, he was accused of drug use after collapsing on stage. He publicly shared negative test results for hard drugs but did not disclose results for marijuana. He later challenged Voltz JT and Saintfloew to undergo testing.

Achievements

  • Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist at the 10th Annual African Entertainment Awards USA in 2024.
  • Proud Father topped the Apple Music charts in Zimbabwe.
  • 2023 Zimhiphop awards Holy Ten was the biggest winner with three awards:
- Best Male
- Best Hip Hop Hustle
- People's Choice