Historic Female Turnout Leaves Macheso in Awe

Sungura star Alick Macheso was stunned as over 27,000 women packed Alex Sports Club for the Doek & Slay concert — the biggest female turnout of his career.

The Harare show, held recently, was followed by another vibrant edition in Gweru on Sunday.

Both events were part of the Doek & Slay movement, which celebrates women through music, fashion, and empowerment.

For Macheso, long accustomed to performing for male-dominated crowds, the moment signaled a powerful transformation.

“I was shocked to the point where I had to ask myself if I was blind or not.

“The ladies really came out in numbers. I have never seen so many women in one place in my music career,” Macheso told H-Metro.

To honour the moment, Macheso curated a playlist tailored for his female fans, featuring hits like “Tafadzwa” and “Shedia.”

The atmosphere was electric, with women singing, dancing, and celebrating freely in a space designed just for them.

“I really appreciate the people behind Doek and Slay for organising an event that’s specifically for ladies.

“Shoutout to all the men who allowed their women to attend,” he said.

According to H-Metro, the daytime format of the event played a key role in its success.

Many women are unable to attend night shows due to household responsibilities and societal expectations. Doek & Slay offered a rare opportunity for them to enjoy live music without judgment.

“It really shows that women love attending musical shows.

“It’s just that most of them happen during the night and many can’t attend because they have to be home taking care of the house and society will label them as bad mothers,” Macheso said.

The event also welcomed children, creating a relaxed and inclusive environment that celebrated women in all their roles — as mothers, professionals, and music lovers.

Macheso acknowledged the emotional impact of the experience and the importance of giving women their own space.

“They deserve to have their own space, like what Doek and Slay is doing, because they go through a lot at times.

“I saw how happy it made them and we love that, thank you,” he said.

Wrapping up, Macheso expressed heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of women who embraced him and his band during the shows.

“Me and my team, we appreciate all the ladies who embraced us at Doek and Slay.”