Some artistes leave behind music that people return to years later. Others leave behind a story that their fans are still trying to make sense of. For Bulawayo rapper Mgcini “Cal_Vin” Nhliziyo, both have become part of his legacy.

Six years after his death on 25 October 2020, his music remains a reminder of his contribution to Zimbabwean hip-hop. Yet, for those who continue to call for justice, the circumstances surrounding his death remain an unfinished chapter.

Cal_Vin died after being struck by a vehicle in Luveve, Bulawayo, in an incident reported as a suspected hit-and-run. He was 35.
News of his death shocked fans and fellow artistes, many of whom had watched him establish himself as one of the recognisable voices in Bulawayo’s hip hop scene. His songs, including Z’khuphani and Bebengakholwa, helped build a following that extended beyond his immediate circle.

Today, his music offers fans a way to remember the artiste they knew. However remembrance has not ended the questions about what happened on the night he died.

Over the years, calls for the case to be resolved have continued, with members of the entertainment community questioning the lack of a publicly announced breakthrough.

The anniversary therefore brings two realities into focus;an artiste whose work remains part of Bulawayo’s musical identity and a death whose circumstances have yet to be publicly resolved.

As the anniversary is marked, Cal_Vin’s music gives fans a reason to revisit his work, but it also reminds them of a career cut short at 35.
His voice remains part of Bulawayo’s hip-hop story. Whether the questions surrounding his death will finally receive answers remains an open chapter.