In 2017, Jo Stak, a Zimbabwean singer, captivated audiences on the Chinese version of The Voice. Dressed in a striking red tuxedo jacket and a bow tie, he performed a Mandarin song called "The World Needs Warm Hearts." His performance earned him a standing ovation and showcased how popular he had become in China, where he had around five million followers on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok.
Stak’s rise to fame began in a Methodist church school where he sang in the choir and recorded a gospel album. His passion for music led him to study Mandarin in China in 2012. He was drawn to Chinese culture, inspired by Jackie Chan’s films. Stak quickly became proficient in Mandarin and began sharing videos of himself singing in the language. This opened doors for him, and he started performing at various venues, eventually catching the attention of major television networks.
By 2019, after seven successful years in China, Stak returned to Zimbabwe when his work visa expired. Back home in Harare, he found himself largely unknown. Despite his previous fame, people in his neighborhood were unaware of his accomplishments. Stak now walks the streets of Budiriro 5, blending in with the local community, chatting with friends, and enjoying life away from the spotlight.
His life in Zimbabwe is a stark contrast to the vibrant music scene he experienced in China. While he has found work as a translator for a Chinese mining company, he struggles to revive his music career. The apps that helped him gain fame in China are not available in Zimbabwe, making it difficult for him to reach audiences. He has recorded new music and considered shifting to gospel, which is popular locally, but promoting his work has proven challenging.
Stak dreams of returning to China, where he felt welcomed and appreciated. He misses performing and the connection he had with his audience there. Despite the distance, he remains popular in China, with fans still inquiring about him through social media.
Now, Stak is at a crossroads. He wants to rebuild his music career in Zimbabwe while also holding on to the memories of his time in China. He hopes to marry and start a family, but the longing for the stage and the spotlight remains strong. As he reflects on his journey, he recognizes the unique position he held as an African artist singing in Mandarin, a rarity that endeared him to many fans.