‘Gospel artistes have no business in bars’

interview following the release of his nine-track album titled “Mwari Anoziva”, Mahlatsi argued that while gospel artistes needed to eke a living through music, they needed to do it in a decent way rather than playing in bars.
“I think as artistes who are on an evangelical mission, it will only be proper if the message is received in a proper setting.
“That is why you find that more often than not, gospel artistes prefer to take part in family shows,” he said.
Turning to his album, Mahlatsi said he decided to release the musical project to reach out to thousands of people who needed to be redeemed from social ills that have plagued people across nations.
“People are going through difficulties on a daily basis. But when that happens to them, they try to use their own intelligence in solving these iniquities, instead of waiting upon the Lord to guide them,” he said.
His assertions are fully explained in the songs, “Mwari Anoziva”, “Haukumbire” and “Vachida Vasingade”. Other tracks on the album include “Ali-Ali”, Mwari Vangu”, “Muupenyu Hwangu Jesu”, and “Ndokuremekedza”.
I found the tracks “Vedzinza” and “Vachida Vasingade”, quite captivating, meditative and versatile in terms of music and instrumental arrangement.
The two tracks talk about the omnipresence of God in our lives despite spirited efforts and attacks from foes, who are always plotting for our downfall from every corner.
Mahlatsi reinforces the message with an up-tempo beat, giving  a lovable punch to it.
The album is already receiving heavy rotation on most local radio stations.
Mahlatsi, who is no stranger to gospel music, having started off in the AFM Church back in 1994, with the likes of Pastor Charles Charamba, says Zimbabwean gospel music has greatly improved in the last 10 years.
“The musical landscape has changed over the years and we have witnessed more gospel artistes coming on the scene than before.
“That development alone has improved quality and appreciation of the genre,” he said.