‘Gospel musicians should remain focused’

Lovemore Meya Arts Correspondent
Gospel musicians should remain focused when preaching the word through music and must not be tempted to change their music because of passing events, veteran gospel musician Machanic Manyeruke has said.
Manyeruke said this on the sidelines of Hwayana DzaJehovha’s third album launch – “NaJesu Tinoyambuka/ With Jesus we Overcome” – over the weekend held at Presybeterian Paraclete College in Kuwadzana 6, Harare.

“Do not go astray on what you are good at while trying to emulate someone. If you sing for God you should not be tempted to sing something like Zimdancehall which is on the rise.

“Musicians sing according to their targeted audience and all gospel singers should be careful on what they are singing and should avoid getting carried away by passing phases,” he said.

Manyeruke said he was happy to be part of the launch and encouraged the group to remain resolute.
“Do not be copycats such that when you listen to someone’s music, you will be tempted to sing it envying the market. Gospel music is not about selling only but converting people to be Christians,” he said.

The “Rigioni” hit singer was the guest musician at the event where he belted tune after tune much to the delight of the fans.
The group’s leader, Pastor Bernard Shonhiwa, said even though piracy is on the rise, their mandate is to convert people to Christianity.

“Our main aim is to turn people into Christians even though we seek to get something in return for our efforts. We have two boys in our group that were orphaned and we have been paying for their school fess since last year, when they were in Form Three,” he said.

Hwayana DzaJehovha, a 12-member ensemble is an apostolic accapela gospel group that fuses hymns with new compositions.
They started singing in 2007 and released their debut album called “Mwari Vanechirevo” in 2011.

Off the album, the tracks “Zvaringana Kurangarirwa naJesu” and “Pauro naSairas” have been receiving air play and made an impact for the group in the gospel circles.

Other groups that performed at the event include Vabati VaJehovha, Simba Ravapostori and Power of  God.
The message on the album touches on social themes, religion and some tracks to look forward to include “Kusangana naJesu”, “Kuterera Kunokunda Chibayiro,” “Mwari Huyai” among others.