Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
EMERGING gospel artiste Yolanda Musungwa has credited Duduzile Manhenga for significantly shaping her career.
As a member of the UFIC Main Choir, Musungwa recently launched her debut album, “I See You God,” and she attributes her transformation as a praise and worship singer to Dudu’s mentorship.
Speaking highly of Manhenga, the frontwoman of Color Blu, Musungwa expressed her gratitude during a pivotal moment for her album, which is gaining traction.
The album features nine soothing tracks, including “You Are Great,” “Child of God,” “Umaqoba,” “Holy,” “Hello Freedom,” “I’m Not Perfect,” “We Trust in You,” “Konke,” and the title track “I See You God.”
Before this album, Musungwa released four singles: “Ndiri Kuona” (2018), “Nyamatsa” (2018), “Mutsvene” (2019), and “Bayethe” (2020).
Now, with her newfound status as a promising queen of praise and worship, she credits Dudu for her guidance.
“I might be enjoying the success of my new album, but my story would be incomplete without mentioning Dudu Manhenga,” she said.
“She is firm and bold in expressing herself as a musician. I had the opportunity to work with her in Bulawayo through several prominent groups, including Dumisa Music Group, where she taught me how to sing and helped me record my first album.”
Musungwa emphasised the importance of acknowledging those who have supported her.
“Dudu is one of the figures I will cherish for years because of what she has done for my career.
“It’s essential to recognise the people who have assisted you in life, and I am simply doing that.”
A devoted member of the UFIC Main Choir, Musungwa revealed that gospel music brings her closer to God.
“After years of singing in various groups, including UFIC Bulawayo, Dumisa Music Choir, and Spirit Praise, I finally decided to record with the support of my husband, Stanley Musungwa. Music brings me closer to God.”
“My vision as a gospel musician is to impact nations and change lives. I am committed to ensuring that this mission is accomplished,” she stated.
Musungwa also shared that music serves as a sanctuary for her, especially after a challenging upbringing where her family struggled to make ends meet. “I use music to share my journey with God, particularly the challenges I faced growing up in an extended family.
“There were times when I missed classes because my school fees weren’t paid on time, but we never gave up, knowing that God was on our side.”
The former Eveline Girls High graduate from Bulawayo highlighted how she has witnessed God’s hand in her life.
“God has blessed me, transforming me from a poor girl who lacked many things to a member of the UFIC Main Choir.
“I am now in a position to do what I love most: praising and worshiping the Lord.”
In addition to her music career, Musungwa is pursuing her architectural studies in Harare. She graduated with a diploma in Bulawayo before relocating.
As a multitasking mother of three, the 31-year-old also manages a horticultural enterprise in Shamva.
“I am a hardworking woman committed to my studies while serving God. In Shamva, we run a serious horticulture business, which has made me a distinct woman. We are dedicated to singing for the Lord,” she asserted.
Mathew Masinge