Choral group in rare gesture

Vakatendeka” which they are distributing free of charge.
Victor Manhopi, founder of the group, said the aim of giving away the album free of charge was to reach out as many souls as possible through gospel music.
“We don’t charge anything because we are not after making profits through our music but preaching the word of God. We don’t charge anything for our shows or our music because music to us is a tool of ministering to the world.
“Although money is essential in our day-to-day lives, we however believe that it (money) is nothing when it comes to the Kingdom of God,” Manhopi, who sponsors the group using money earned from his business, said.
Formed in 1999, the group first shared the stage with Mucheke Choral Group based in Masvingo and since then has never looked book. They also performed with the likes of Elias Musakwa.
“Our major source of inspiration was Reverend Aaron Dubie Madawo. We started performing songs based on church hymns because we realised that church hymns were facing extinction,” Manhopi said.
From then on, doors started opening up for them, as they were later to perform at various other crusades organised and featuring various renowned artistes including Elias Musakwa.
They also entertained guests at Musakwa’s marriage where they performed alongside the likes of top South African gospel maestro Sipho Makhabane. They then released their debut album titled “Mwari Vanesu” in 2004 which they followed up with “Ruoko RwaMwari” (2007) and “Inzwi Rashe” released in 2009.
All albums were recorded at Ngaavongwe Records before Manhopi decided to set up his own recording studio, Omni Multi Media Solutions, with whom they recorded their latest album “Mwari Vakatendeka”.
The album opens with the song “Ungatora Hako Pasi”.
“Mwari Baba Vangu” extols God for his abundant love while “Ndiropafadze Jesu” is a plea to Jesus Christ for blessings.
“Chinyarara Moyo Wangu” addresses one’s heart and assures it that Jesus Christ is there for solace.
This song is closer to “Ndinaye Muponesi” in terms of message while “Chinhu Chinotyisa” signs off the album.