Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RENOWNED all-male gospel a cappella ensemble, Family Voices, is set to celebrate 25 years of musical ministry in grand style, unveiling their new album Evidence of the Kingdom at a red carpet event to be held at the Family of God Auditorium in Bulawayo on August 30.
The celebration will be elevated by appearances from some of Southern Africa’s most respected gospel creatives, including heavyweight Everton Mlalazi, Sarungano hit-makers The Redeemed Family, Seren Music, Prosper Kundai, and Joyous Celebration stars Mnqobi Nxumalo and Siyakha Khitha.
The 14-track album was produced by Jordan David Roll, a respected editing and mixing engineer affiliated with the award-winning United States of America group Six Appeal. The project also features collaborations with two-time Grammy Award-winning producer Bill Hare from the United States, Mnqobi Nxumalo, Siyakha Khitha, and Prosper Kundai of Divine Kingdom Ministry in Bulawayo.
According to Brighton Ncube, a long-serving member of Family Voices, the album explores themes close to the Christian heart — faith, hope, courage, and the enduring power of God’s Kingdom.
“Evidence of the Kingdom is our second album in 25 years of existence. It’s a follow-up to our first project Time for Breaking Through, released in 2014. We are excited about this new offering because it reflects how we’ve managed to survive the past 25 years — a true testimony of patience and resilience,” said Ncube.
He said the album touches on themes that many Christians will resonate with.
“We are preaching about God’s power and the peace found in His Kingdom, which cannot be compared to any other. There’s so much beauty in serving in His Kingdom, and we’re sending a message of hope and repentance while also showcasing the limitless possibilities of praising God.”
Ncube said the red carpet launch will not only celebrate the group’s musical journey but also serve as a platform to honour the resilience and unity that has sustained them for a quarter-century.
“Preparations for the event are at an advanced stage. We’ve secured different artistes who’ll headline the launch, and we’re now working on their logistics. We’re looking forward to hosting them here in Bulawayo. This has to be a massive gospel event for the city, and we’re calling on the business community to come forward, partner with us, and help us fulfil God’s purpose.”
Family Voices was formed in 1999 by a group of young men of faith — Victor Adams, Elliot Nhengu, the late Ambassador Eric Moyo, the late Augustin Moyo, Oliver Chinyenye, and Lawrence. They are regarded as the first generation of the group, who responded to God’s instruction to start an a cappella group that would transcend cultures and generations, using music to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The second generation of Family Voices featured prominent talents such as former Joyous Celebration member Mkhululi Bhebhe, Basil Mafu, Joel Mpofu, the late Nigel Gotosa, Brighton Ncube, Mncedisi Nare, Chris Juma, Silas Nobert, and Roland Moyo, the younger brother of the late Eric Moyo.
The current line-up includes Tinashe Chitsaka, Brighton Ncube, Melusi Sibanda, Michael Sibanda, Sean Banda, Nkanyiso Gumbo, Oscar Mukaro, and Ngoni Musiniwa.
Reflecting on the group’s evolution, Ncube said the journey has been filled with trials, but their faith and creativity have kept them going.
“A cappella music is dominant and common among the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) community, while we come from a Pentecostal background. So, we had to withstand ridicule and rejection from both Pentecostal and SDA communities. Many dismissed us as a group that wouldn’t last.
“But we overcame that negativity by blending Pentecostal musical elements with a cappella. That’s how we birthed what we call House Capella — a fusion with house music arrangements that caught the attention of many.”
This unique sound helped them break through traditional boundaries and attract a diverse fan base, leading to landmark moments in their career.
One of Family Voices’ proudest achievements was their feature on the South African telenovela Muvhango in its 2000th episode, where they performed at the televised wedding of Thandaza (Sindi Dlathu) and Ranthumeng (Brian Themba). They also flew the Zimbabwean flag high at the Durban Essence Festival.
As the group prepares to celebrate 25 years, Evidence of the Kingdom is more than just an album — it reflects their faith, unity, and strength through challenging times.
“We’ve been through a lot over the years, but we’re still here, still singing,” said Ncube.
