Zimbabwean dancehall artist Jimmy Mudere—popularly known as Silent Killer—is at the centre of a heated legal battle after failing to honor a performance contract with Y2K Entertainment Music & Arts for a major UK music festival. Harare-based law firm DM Thombeni Legal Practitioners has issued a formal letter of demand to Samundombe & Partners, representing Silent Killer, seeking USD 122,170 in damages over alleged breach of contract, unprofessional conduct, and reputational harm.
According to the letter dated 16 May 2025, Silent Killer was contracted to perform at the SAMA Festival in Leicester, United Kingdom on 19 April 2025. The event featured several Zimbabwean artists, but Silent Killer failed to appear—despite receiving funds and travel support from Y2K Entertainment.
The legal letter outlines a troubling sequence of events:
Delayed Passport and Visa Issues: The artist allegedly received USD 300 in 2024 to acquire an emergency passport, followed by multiple additional payments, including USD 500 to retrieve his passport and USD 100 for visa application biometrics. However, delays due to his late submissions forced organisers to book him a second visa interview—at their own cost.
Missed Flights and No Show: Although his visa was approved just in time for the show, Silent Killer allegedly missed the initial flight due to lateness and went on to miss two subsequent tickets booked for him. His total absence led to frantic changes in festival programming.
Unexplained Demands: On the day of travel, the artist reportedly refused to disembark from a car at RG Mugabe International Airport and demanded an additional USD 300—claiming it was for his wife or girlfriend. Despite being paid the amount via an intermediary, Silent Killer still failed to board his flight.
Reputational and Financial Damage: Y2K claims they had to spend thousands to replace him with another performer (Oriyano) and compensate disappointed stakeholders. Total damages listed include payments for tickets, accommodation, replacement acts, and an alleged USD 100,000 in reputational harm.
Silent Killer had initially received an advance of USD 500, with another USD 2000 to be paid upon arrival in the UK. A video allegedly exists showing him acknowledging receipt of the advance and confirming the agreement.
The law firm is demanding that the full USD 122,170 be paid within seven days of receiving the letter, failing which legal action will be initiated. An additional USD 12,217 is also being sought as collection commission.
