Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
MASVINGO-based gospel ensemble Halo Music have announced their arrival on Zimbabwe’s gospel music scene with the release of their debut single, Tell Jesus, a song carrying a message of hope, faith and total dependence on God during life’s most difficult moments.
Although the group was formed in 2023, its members have spent the past few years refining their sound and building a solid foundation before unveiling their first official release. Their patience appears to be paying off, with Tell Jesus already gaining traction among gospel music lovers.
The ensemble brings together a diverse mix of talent spanning different generations, from high school students to adults, creating a dynamic blend of youthful enthusiasm and maturity. The group consists of Mennaseh Chisvo, Thanks Mudzimba, Shaynese Muza, Tumisaang Munyanyi, Kudzaishe Rubaya, Blessing Manika, Blessing Munangati, Danlee Zimunda, Makaita Huruva, Mutsa Huruva, Dumisani Ntuli, Naishe Madembo, Cherish Mbetu and Ashley Nguwo.
Penned by the group’s musical director, Chisvo, Tell Jesus is rooted in a personal experience that tested his faith and ultimately inspired the song’s uplifting message.
“This song was born out of a real-life experience. At the time, my mother was seriously ill, while my girlfriend was also battling health challenges. We sought medical help, and every test kept telling us everything was normal, yet they remained in pain.
“When all hope seemed lost, we turned to Jesus. He answered our prayers and brought healing into our lives. That experience reminded me that there are situations only God can resolve, and I felt compelled to write this song as a testimony of His faithfulness,” said Chisvo.
To ensure the song reaches a broad audience, Halo Music recorded Tell Jesus in English, Shona and IsiNdebele, a deliberate decision aimed at making its message accessible to listeners from different backgrounds.
Released on July 11, the song has already started making an impact online.
“The response has been overwhelming. People are connecting with the message because it speaks to everyday struggles. Within just five days of its release, the song had attracted close to 1 000 views on YouTube, and we believe it will continue reaching even more people,” Chisvo said.
Buoyed by the encouraging reception, the group is now planning to shoot a music video for Tell Jesus while simultaneously working towards the release of a 12-track debut album before the end of the year.
Like many emerging gospel acts, however, Halo Music faces significant challenges, particularly in securing funding and gaining exposure on mainstream platforms.
“Funding remains our biggest challenge because producing quality music and videos requires significant resources.
We already have enough material for an album, but we can only release songs as our finances allow. That is why, despite being formed in 2023, we are only releasing our first single now.
“Publicity is another hurdle. As a new group, it is difficult to break into established platforms and get our music heard by a wider audience. Even so, we remain hopeful that Tell Jesus will open doors, introduce our ministry to more people, and create opportunities for us to continue sharing the Gospel through music,” he said.
