Former Spirit Praise backing vocalist, Devotion C enjoying solo career

Devotion C, a former backing vocalist for Spirit Praise Zimbabwe, has launched his solo musical career with a bang. The Gospel Rock singer, whose real name is Matthew Chishumba, released his latest single, “Zimbabwe Arise and Shine”, on Tuesday, showcasing his talent and passion.

The single is part of his poetry album, Sabela, which features three poems that address the issues of mental health, drug abuse, and gender-based violence. Devotion C said he was inspired by his prayer life and the word of God to write the poems.

“This song came when I was praying and the lyrics were laid in my heart and was being shown the nation of Zimbabwe and the Biblical books of Isaiah 60, 2 Kings 7, and Nehemiah 6. As I continued praying, I felt it in my spirit that the Holy Spirit was leading me and I saw the Lord doing great things for the nation of Zimbabwe in various fields and I believe Zimbabwe will arise and shine,” he said.

Devotion C credited his previous experiences as a backing vocalist and a participant of the Starbrite talent show in 2011 for shaping his musical journey. He said he learned a lot from Gospel Power, a group led by Lovemore Kenneth Gunda, and ZAOGA Braeside Choir, where he also sang as a backing vocalist.

“Being part of the Starbrite talent show was a learning experience and I was also trained by Gospel Power under Lovemore Kenneth Gunda. I was a backing vocalist for Spirit Praise Zimbabwe and ZAOGA Braeside Choir as a backing vocalist as well and all those lessons are now coming to fruition,” he said.

Devotion C’s songs have been gaining popularity on local and regional radio stations. He was also nominated for the Best Urban Sound award by South Africa’s Neighbour Magazine last year, where he came third. His discography includes songs such as “Istimela sezulu”, “Yimilo”, and “Questions in my heart.”

@MbuleloMpofu