“The Land of Legends” — Major Deal’s Rise from H...

“The Land of Legends” — Major Deal’s Rise from Highfield to the Airwaves

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

Tineyi Dick, known by his stage name Major Deal, says his journey into music was shaped by his upbringing in Highfield—a township he proudly calls “the land of legends.”

“Growing up, music was a huge part of my life,” he said. “Artists like Soul Jah Love inspired me, and writing lyrics became a way to express myself and tell stories from my community.”

Highfield, one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most iconic townships, has long been a cradle of talent. It’s the same ground that produced late music icon Oliver Mtukudzi, lyrical pioneer Soul Jah Love, and even Zimbabwe’s founding leader, Robert Mugabe.

“There’s something about Highfield,” Major Deal said with a smile. “It raises people with fire in their hearts and stories in their bones.”

His musical journey started on a small scale—performing in classrooms, on street corners, and at local events. Over time, he built confidence and refined a signature style rooted in raw emotion and street wisdom.

“I started experimenting with different sounds, collaborating with friends,” he said. “Then I released my first single, Mushengenene, and people started paying attention.”

The release of his debut EP, THE LAST CRY, marked a turning point. The project, anchored in themes of hope and resilience, resonated deeply with listeners facing similar hardships.

“It was more than music,” he said. “It was therapy — for me and for the fans.”

As his sound matured—evolving from hard Dancehall to a fusion of Hip-Hop and Afro vibes—Major Deal began collaborating with rising stars like Dhobha Donnie and Terry Africa, a move that widened his fanbase and unlocked new creative energy.

“Working with Dhobha and Terry pushed me creatively,” he said. “We brought our energies together and created something fresh for the streets.”

But the path hasn’t been easy. Studio time is expensive, and pushing one’s brand as an upcoming artist takes more than talent.

“You have to juggle creativity with hustle,” he said. “It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”

He urged aspiring musicians to stay grounded. “Remain authentic, never stop learning, and collaborate with others,” he said. “Networking opens doors you didn’t know existed.”

Among his musical heroes, Major Deal singles out Jah Prayzah. “His music and legacy inspire me,” he said. “If Oliver Mtukudzi were still alive, I would have loved to work with him too.”

Looking ahead, Major Deal is focused on creating new music and exploring different sounds and messages.

“I’m excited to share what’s next,” he said. “There’s a lot more to come.”

Off the stage, he has a passion for livestock farming and community development. For him, music is not just about personal success — it’s about impact.

“I want to use my music to spark change,” he said. “Where I come from, we need that.”