By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Controversial Zimdancehall artist Silent Killer has dismissed claims that he refused to board a UK-bound flight due to a dream about a potential plane explosion.
Speaking out against promoter Fred Matenga’s version of events, the artist clarified that the issue was not related to any mystical visions but rather a financial dispute.
In an interview with DJ Sparks, the musician, whose real name is Jimmy Mudereri, stated, “I checked in. I was ready to travel. But I couldn’t perform without payment. That’s not how we operate.”
The controversy arose after Matenga, of Y2K Promotions, alleged that Silent Killer mysteriously walked back to his car after checking in at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport. Matenga further claimed the artist refused to board a second flight, even locking himself in an airport toilet.
“Silent Killer refused to board a UK-bound flight because he had a dream it would explode,” Matenga said during a press conference.
He also mentioned that the team had to spend US$1,500 to rebook Silent Killer’s ticket due to the incident, but similar drama ensued once again.
Despite these claims, Silent Killer emphasized that his refusal was based on respect and professionalism.
“I refused to board the plane without payment. I’m not naïve,” he reiterated.
The artist was scheduled to perform at the SAMA Festival UK 2025 in Leicester on April 19, alongside fellow artists Alick Macheso and Mambo Dhuterere. Silent Killer has a history of skipping shows, which has led to some promoters losing faith in his reliability.
For instance, he previously missed the Beitbridge Pagomba show last year despite being fully paid, raising concerns that promoters might have intended to pay him only after his performance this time around.
Nonetheless, Silent Killer maintains that his stance on payment is firm and justified, and he remains committed to his professional integrity.