Chronicle Editor
Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
ARTISTES who performed at the Gwanda International Gospel Music Festival (GIGMF) say they are delighted to have showcased their talent and uplifted the thousands who attended.
Thousands of people from all walks of life gathered at the Pelandaba Stadium for the three-day fete that was organised by Bigtime Strategic Group.
Some of the artistes such as Deborah Fraser, Thina Zungu and Mathias Mhere said they were intrigued by the way the crowd responded to their music.
When Deborah was on stage, she had endless requests for hits such as Susa Lumthwalo, Chineke Na Aza Ekpere and Abanye Bayombona. She said this response to her music had spurred her on to come to Gwanda next time.
“I have to make it a point that when I come back, I do perform the songs that the crowd requested me to sing as they kept on asking for them. It was so amazing and it made me want to cry,” she said just after performing.
“What I have discovered about Gwanda people is that they love God. God is going to bless them. He’s going to intervene in their lives and give them all that they desire,” said Deborah.
Another South African artiste, Thina Zungu, described the audience as wonderful, warm and welcoming.
“I feel very honoured seeing such a wonderful audience at a powerful event. I feel blessed.
“They welcomed me with open hands and sang along to my songs. I hope I can return, give back and celebrate even more with them,” said Zungu.
Mathias Mhere, who sings mostly in Shona, said he was pleasantly surprised that people in Gwanda knew the lyrics to most of his songs.
“I’d like to thank God because what He did for me here in Gwanda made me happy. I didn’t know that people here could sing my music as it’s in Shona.
The way the crowd was singing along to my music made me so happy,” Mhere said.
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