Passion Java revives Roki

By Tawanda Matanhire

No discussion about the contemporary Zimbabwean entertainment scene is complete without mentioning Rockford “Roki” Josphats.
The veteran performer made a name for himself in local showbiz as teenager at the turn of the millennium. He has traversed the world, took part in Big Brother Africa and released a string of hits over the years.
He has a strong CV as far as Zimbabwean showbiz is concerned and has music fans that grew up on a staple of his music and, of course, tabloid headlines.
He has had his dark side consistently amplified. Over the years, he has been caught up in drug and alcohol abuse, created a reputation for siring children with many different women and was generally known for the mismanagement of his brand.
All that, we are told, is now history – Roki is now a born again Christian.
He has hooked up with self-proclaimed US-based Zimbabwean prophet, Passion Java, who has vowed to use his resources and influence to better the lives of Zimbabwean artists, including Roki.
Java, a controversial preacher, has said Roki only needed someone to reach out to him because of his rare and immense talent.
He said Roki had transformed from a drug abuser to eyeing history on the international showbiz scene.
“The talent cannot be ignored. Roki is a superstar and people need to see more of him,” said Java.
“I have managed to take Roki off drugs. He is back with a bang, to be the artist he is supposed to be.”
Roki announced he was turning to God earlier this year and it looks like he is sticking to his decision with the help Java. He has released a song entitled Baba Lao, which is accompanied by a video which has already been uploaded to his YouTube account.
It has an up-tempo modern beat set to send fans to the dance floor this festive season, which is what people know Roki for.
The video features the Tswibidi Prophet himself, some swanky dance moves, a bevy of beauties and well-built men that appear to be everywhere where Java is.
Roki has never lacked in terms of choreography even though this time around it wasn’t him doing most of the dancing. The video, however, outshines most of his previous works.
Born Rockford Josphat, the talented star made a name in the ‘90s with hits such as the popular Chidzoka, Susanna and Seiko, to name just a few.
Though he has been releasing singles, Roki has been lacking consistency. However, he has featured in number of collaborations.
Many fans feel the talented star still has a lot more to offer because of his rare talent. Nhau/Indaba