Macheso recalls hunting mice to survive in Dzivaresekwa

Grinding out 900 mice a week turned into a music empire, and Alick Macheso is basically proof that a dusty hustle can morph into stadium crowds.

From mice hunting to music stages

• Alick Macheso grew up in Shamva before relocating to Dzivaresekwa.
• In the early 1980s, he trapped and sold hundreds of mice weekly.
• Some weeks hit 900 catches, which he sold locally.
• Laughter from neighbors did not stop his grind.

Faith fuels the rise

• Macheso credits God for lifting him from street hustles.
• Performing where he once hunted feels surreal to him.
• Success, he says, came from trusting divine guidance.
• Gratitude drives his outlook on fame and status.

Message about honest hustles

• The sungura star urges people to respect their side gigs.
• Supporting family through talent matters more than pride.
• Shame, in his view, has no place in survival work.
• Hard beginnings can still lead to public recognition.

Skills beyond the guitar

• Fishing is another craft he picked up growing up.
• River trips can stock his household with relish for weeks.
• Time constraints limit how often he heads out.
• Young people are encouraged to sharpen their natural gifts.

Spirituality without church ties

• Although not tied to a denomination, Macheso leans on prayer.
• He calls himself a prayer warrior in daily life.
• Each year of his career feels like added momentum.
• Belief in God remains central to his long-term drive.