adminTafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter
Upcoming gospel outfit L4HIM who have caused a stir in churches with their hit singles such as “Testimony” and “This n That” are set for university tours in conjunction with Music Beyond Borders.
The tour, which is set to promote their new album, entitled “No Genre” and market the group, is pencilled in from the latter part of next month to the end of January.
The group, which comprises Thabani Jasi, Tinashe Chiku and Munyaradzi Kachidza is popular for its hip-hop genre in the gospel circles and records under Ever Fresh Records.
Some songs from the album include “Testimony”, “Denga Razaruka”, “Give Me the Loving” and “This n That” among others and are all based on societal settings with an afro-fusion, traditional contemporary, hip-hop and R’nB feel.
In an interview with The Herald Entertainment, L4HIM manager Godfrey Mungeni said apart from the tour they have lined up a number of activities beyond promoting the group. They hope to engender development in the music sector.
“From where we come from our genre is not fully supported because many youths are more interested the dancehall music. Preparations for the tour are underway with some rehearsals in progress in the studio. We have planned a lot of events starting off with the Christmas Cheer Fund Concert at Harry Margolis Hall later this month with some renowned local gospel musicians.
“Thirty percent of the proceeds will be donated to a charity organisation as a Christmas gift as we believe that it is the responsibility of musicians to assist the community. The event will give light to youths that dancehall music is not only the only genre in the country that youths can enjoy.
Mungeni said the tour will set the record straight about the group after its major downsizing from eight members to three.
“The group is known for its clean gospel hip-hop lyrics but a lot still needs to be done. We split because the other five had other commitments which was a hindrance to the group. We are still friends with them and they are most welcome anytime but L4HIM has now officially three members,” he said.
He cited acceptance and financial constraints as major challenges in the sector.
According to group leader Thabani Jasi (24), the group is inspired by Kenya-based gospel outfit Camp Mulla.
“We love that group because they do clean hip-hop and have risen from rags to riches through hard work and determination. Our role model is Sonny Digital and I am happy music has been an interesting journey in our lives.
“At first our parents were not happy with our chosen career but after listening to us and attending most of our functions they are now very much in support though some people in the community regard singing as an option for those who have failed in life.
“We have a lot of stars in Mbare from Killer T, Soujah Love to Kinah but all are dancehall artistes. We chose hip-hop so as to be different,” he said.
Online Reporter