Online Reporter
Charismatic praise and worship minister, Michael Mahendere, possesses a special anointing that leaves one yearning for paradise.
His calling began even before he was born.
Every note he sings and every chord he strikes is refreshingly new and supremely divine. After perfecting his craft under the great tutelage of his siblings — Ackim, a sound engineer at UFIC Church; Amos, a church pastor; and Misheck, a music teacher and preacher — Michael has always been in capable hands. What more could he ask for, given that his parents, Paul and Diana Mahendere, were phenomenal vocalists who diligently cleared obstacles, making their children’s paths navigable?
It is no surprise that, being born into a family of singers, he would touch the hearts of millions with his spiritually uplifting songs. Five of his major compositions — “Ndinobuda Pakaoma”, “Tangai Neni”, “Makanaka Jesu” and “Guta Reutiziro”— establish him as a complete package. He has rightfully earned the name Minister Mahendere (MM), and his ordination sets him apart.
Herald on Saturday Lifestyle Senior Writer Trust Khosa (TK) had a chat with the gospel star a week before the 24th National Arts Merit Awards ceremony, scheduled for the Harare International Conference Centre. He is competing for the Outstanding Male Musician gong, alongside Emegy Chizanga, also known as Freeman HKD, and Mukudzeyi Mukombe, also known as Jah Prayzah.
Already a winner by virtue of his nomination, the charismatic preacher’s prayerful lifestyle has always revolved around worshipping the Lord. Read on . . .
TK: What does the nomination for the 24th Namas mean to your brand?
MM: To be honest, it’s a humbling moment and a confirmation of sorts that the message of Jesus we sing about is being heard across the land.
TK: What can you say about the appeal of gospel music in Zimbabwe at the moment, considering you are one of the most trending and consistent stars in recent years?
MM: I wouldn’t know about trending, but I am very happy that as the gospel music fraternity, we are pushing the envelope in terms of songwriting, production and live shows. We are striving for excellence from all corners, and I think we are doing very well.
TK: As a multiple award-winner, how do you rate the Namas?
MM: They are relevant and needed in our nation, as they celebrate the authentic home-brewed gifts. Those who yearn to be better, like myself, learn from the other talents as they are brought to light.
TK: What makes you unique from other gospel artistes of your generation?
MM: I think we are all unique in our different fields of expertise. What I focus on is to be myself and to express my true self in whatever I release into the world. What I study in the word of God and understand is what the world hears in song.
TK: Coming from a rich musical background, can you share some tips that have made you unique since going solo?
MM: One of the best lessons I have learnt is to have good character. If the music is good but stems from a flawed character, it’s only a matter of time before you lose relevance with your target audience.
TK: What plans do you have, along with your siblings, who once formed the mighty Mahendere Brothers, to collaborate on one project?
MM: Though you may not see us performing as the Mahendere Brothers, we are still as tight as we were back then. We share ideas and even production direction on our different projects. If you listen closely, you will hear that although we are solo artistes, the Mahendere brand runs deep in the sound we produce.
TK: What do you miss the most about the time you worked together as Mahendere Brothers?
MM: The lessons I learnt as a brother were invaluable. Learning from my older brothers and benefiting from their wisdom was the highlight of my upbringing.
TK: What impact did your brother Amos have on your career?
MM: My brother taught me leadership, tenacity and the drive to deliver what God has placed on my heart.
TK: Who are your role models?
MM: There are many, but to narrow it down, Jesus, my Lord and Saviour, is at the top of the list. The way He lived and how He handled situations is something I study daily. My father, Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, is also a beacon of inspiration.
TK: What’s your vision as a gospel artiste and minister of the word of God?
MM: The vision is clear: to spread Jesus through melody and word. We aim to put the name Messiah on the lips of the multitudes. This year, we are also embarking on a drive to raise others who are like-minded to bring out their own sound and spread the word.
TK: How do you balance your schedule between ministry work and music?
MM: Honestly, it’s tough to balance; it’s not easy to do, but by the grace of God, we manage. God has given me a wonderful wife, Vimbai Mahendere; she supports me fully. We also have a capable team in the music sector that handles some of the work.
TK: Besides ministry and music, what other side hustles do you have?
MM: I have a lot of those; let’s just say I am a business person. You might be surprised by some of the industries I am involved in.
Michael Mahendere and wife Vimbai.
TK: What are your thoughts on church pastors who don’t want to pay for services rendered by gospel artistes who are part of their congregations?
MM: That’s a great question — one that would require a whole other interview. It’s a conversation that needs to be had without cutting corners.
TK: February, being a month of love, what are you preaching to couples?
MM: We are teaching the love of patience. In a day and age where everything has to be done instantly, we need to have enough grace for those we love to grow and develop. Love nurtures, and spouses need the grace to grow together away from the public eye. Social media is distorting reality and people feel rushed to achieve greatness without understanding the process.
TK: What are some of your childhood memories that you would like to share?
MM: My childhood revolved around serving God, and I see less of that in this generation. I remember travelling with the late great evangelist Chiweshe doing crusades — learning and participating. We need to encourage young people to serve in the house of God.
TK: Tell us about your love life.
MM: I’m happily married to my beautiful wife, Vimbai Mahendere, for 14 years. We have been blessed with four lovely children.
TK: Name the albums you have released so far, along with their titles and years of release.
MM: These include Getting Personal with God 1, 2, 3, 4 and Classical Worship 1, 2, 3.
TK: Lastly, what advice do you have for upcoming musicians?
MM: Don’t be quick to emerge from the secret place to satisfy social media. Take time to understand yourself, know your strengths and weaknesses, surround yourself with godly people, and lastly, be yourself. The world is waiting for you — not a copy of someone else.
TK: Thank you for the interview.
MM: You are welcome.
