WATCH: Amapiano star Tman Xpress welcomes 2025 in Bulawayo

South African Amapiano star Tman Xpress dazzles Bulawayo, celebrating New Year’s Day with fans despite rain, performing hits, and highlighting cultural connections.

Tman Xpress delivered a stellar performance in the early hours of New Year's Day at Ko-Samuriwo in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Image: Dumani Moyo

South African Amapiano sensation Tman Xpress rang in the New Year in style, celebrating 2025 with a thrilling performance in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Despite heavy rains, dedicated fans flocked to Ko-Samuriwo Pub and Grill in Luveve township to witness the artist’s first-ever performance in the country.

Tman Xpress Rings in the New Year in Bulawayo

Tman Xpress, the headliner of the event, delivered an electrifying performance featuring some of his most popular hits, including Amasango, Kwelinye, Imali Ikhona, Imnandi Lento, and many more. His set was complemented by a stellar lineup of local talent, including resident DJs Mzoe, Sweeto, Flabg, and other notable artists who kept the crowd energised throughout the night.

Cultural Connections Between South Africa and Zimbabwe

Speaking to The South African, Tman Xpress expressed his admiration for Zimbabwe and drew parallels between South African and Zimbabwean cultures, particularly in Bulawayo. “2025 brought me here to Bulawayo. People here are amazing,” he said. “I always look at Zim in the news, but when I came here, I was like, ‘No, but there is nothing like that.’ I did not think that so many people knew my music like that. I was surprised when I heard them singing along.”

The artist also spoke about the strong connection between Bulawayo and Johannesburg for South African musicians. He revealed that Bulawayo consistently ranks among the top cities streaming his music on Spotify. “There’s so much connection between Bulawayo and Johannesburg,” he noted, promising to create more music and videos in 2025.

Tman Xpress’ hopes for Song of the Year

Reflecting on the song of the year in South Africa, Tman Xpress shared his hopes for Kwelanga, a track he featured on, to claim the title. “I would have loved Kwelanga to take it. The message of the song is very strong. That is the kind of message that should take you to new beginnings or to the New Year,” he explained.

Ko-Samuriwo Pub and Grill Anniversary

The event also marked a milestone for Ko-Samuriwo Pub and Grill, which celebrated its first anniversary. Owner Brian Samuriwo emphasised the significance of hosting regional artists in Bulawayo. “I really think that people never thought we could bring a South African musician here to Luveve,” he said. Blending the pub’s anniversary celebration with New Year’s festivities and Tman Xpress’s performance proved to be a winning formula. “I’m happy to bring a new vibe to the city, and people are supporting it,” Samuriwo added.

***Tman Xpress and Brian Samuriwo. Image: Dumani Moyo***

The event was a memorable start to 2025 for both Tman Xpress and the people of Bulawayo, setting the stage for more cross-cultural collaborations and celebrations in the future.