Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
GOSPEL artiste, Jairos Mutambikwa, has insisted that he remains firmly rooted in gospel music despite gaining widespread recognition for songs celebrating various football clubs.
Mutambikwa, whose music blends gospel with different contemporary sounds, has become a familiar voice at football celebrations, with his songs increasingly finding favour among supporters and players.
For the husky-voiced artiste, the crossover between gospel, football and contemporary sounds appears to be less about changing musical direction, and more about exploring different ways of reaching audiences, while retaining his identity as a gospel artiste.
His anthemic song, Mutare Iguta Redu, in which he celebrates the beauty and scenic attractions of Mutare, remains one of his notable releases.
However, his growing association with football has seen him produce songs dedicated to a number of teams.
His song, Mabviravira, became the soundtrack to Scottland FC’s Northern Region Division One championship celebrations.
The song also featured prominently during celebrations at Rufaro Stadium, where the Mbare Chimurenga Choir was captured dancing to it after the team clinched the title two years ago.
Mutambikwa has also released songs such as, Gem Boys, and more recently, Kasongo, a tribute to Premier Soccer League debutants, Hardrock.
The latest offering comes in both jiti and amapiano versions, further demonstrating the musician’s versatility.
Despite his football-themed repertoire, Mutambikwa said gospel remains at the heart of his musical journey.
“I am still very much a gospel musician. My love for gospel music has not changed, even though I have found myself writing and performing songs that celebrate football teams and their achievements. Music is a powerful way of bringing people together, and football has given me another platform to connect with the people through song. When I write a song for a football team, I am celebrating the passion, unity and excitement surrounding the game. It does not take away my calling as a gospel artiste. In fact, some of the messages in my music continue to speak about hope, unity, love and gratitude. These are values that cut across both gospel and the songs I do for football supporters,” he said.
He added: “I am riding on the crest of releasing a soulful and beautiful track, A Song for Zimbabwe (Huyai Tinamate). The song is about Zimbabwe and encouraging people to come together in prayer. It is also my way of expressing my appreciation for the progress and developments taking place in the country under President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“We are also doing a lot of live shows, which has been a very exciting part of this journey. We recently had the opportunity to perform at a regional show in Manica, Mozambique, and it was a wonderful experience. I am grateful that the music continues to take me to different places and introduce me to different audiences. I am also proud to say that I am part of an all-star line-up that will perform at Dorcas Moyo’s album launch next month. Sharing the stage with such talented musicians is an honour, and I am looking forward to the occasion. It has been a beautiful ride so far, and I am thankful to God for every opportunity and for the people who continue to support my music,” he added.
