Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
THE countdown has begun and songstress, Saiwe Chimbetu, says she cannot wait to set the stage alight when she performs at the July Worship Music Festival.
It will be hosted by Minister Micheal Mahendere in two weeks’ time.
Born into Zimbabwe’s legendary Chimbetu musical dynasty, Saiwe has steadily carved out her own identity by taking the signature Dendera sound into gospel music.
Rather than following the conventional path, she has embraced faith, using the infectious rhythms made famous by her family to spread messages of hope, praise and salvation.
Over the years, she has become one of the country’s leading ambassadors of gospel Dendera, earning admiration for preserving a uniquely Zimbabwean sound while giving it a fresh spiritual purpose.
Speaking during a press conference held yesterday at the Hyatt Regency, the musician said fans should prepare for an energetic performance that will celebrate God through the unmistakable rhythms of Dendera music.
Known for blending the rich Chimbetu musical heritage with messages of hope and faith, Saiwe said she is determined to prove that gospel can be joyful, danceable and spiritually uplifting all at once.
“I am excited to be part of this year’s July Worship Music Festival. It is an honour to share the stage with so many talented gospel ministers and musicians.
“Every artist has something unique to offer and I believe together we are going to create a memorable worship experience,” she said.
Saiwe revealed that her set will be packed with lively gospel Dendera music designed to get worshippers on their feet.
“I will be bringing gospel Dendera – upbeat music that celebrates God with joy.
“People should expect energy, celebration and thanksgiving.
“Worship is not only about slow songs; sometimes it is about rejoicing, dancing and praising God with everything we have.”
The singer also used the opportunity to tease an upcoming music project, saying she has been working tirelessly in the studio and is looking forward to unveiling new material soon.
“I have a new project coming up and I am very excited about it.
“We have been putting in a lot of work and I believe people will appreciate the direction we are taking. More details will be announced very soon.”
Saiwe said the gospel music industry continues to grow in Zimbabwe, with more young musicians embracing different genres while remaining committed to spreading the Word of God.
“I am happy to see gospel music evolving. We now have artists expressing the gospel through different sounds while staying true to the message of Christ.
“That diversity is healthy because it allows us to reach different audiences.”
She believes traditional Zimbabwean music styles also have a significant role to play in gospel ministry. “Dendera is part of our identity. When people hear those rhythms, they immediately connect with them.
“We are using that sound to preach the gospel and I want to assure fans that gospel Dendera is here to stay.”
The singer said she remains committed to preserving and growing the genre for future generations. “I promise that gospel Dendera will remain alive. We will continue creating music that inspires, heals and brings people closer to God while keeping our Zimbabwean musical heritage alive.”
This year’s July Worship Music Festival is shaping up to be one of the biggest gospel gatherings on the local calendar, bringing together some of Zimbabwe’s finest worship leaders and musicians under one roof.
On the list include Eleana Makombe, the Cherayis, Sir Benjamin Rupapa, Tinashe Muponda, Gemma Griffiths, Samantha Simangaliso, The Unveiled, Evidence Gundani and Misheck Mahendere among others, sharing the stage with Minister Michael Mahendere.
With Saiwe Chimbetu promising an explosive dose of praise, infectious Dendera rhythms, and new music on the horizon, festival-goers have every reason to start counting down the days.
If her enthusiasm at yesterday’s press conference is anything to go by, audiences should prepare for a colourful celebration where worship meets Zimbabwe’s beloved Dendera beat.
