Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SOUTH African gospel powerhouse Spirit of Praise (SOP), which has staged three uplifting shows in Zimbabwe in the past two years, is set to return to Bulawayo on 30 November for a performance in the city.
The performance will be part of their Next Level Tour.
SOP will be bringing some of its most revered ministers of the gospel, including Ayanda Ntanzi, Dumi Mkokstad, Lufuno Dagada, Mpumi Mtsweni, Omega Khunou, Sindi Ntombela, Xola Toto, Zaza Mokhethi, alongside Zimbabwe’s Everton Mlalazi and Canaan Nyathi.
Adding spiritual weight to the event will be seasoned psalmist and Pastor Mthunzi Namba, a foundational figure in the creation of the equally iconic Joyous Celebration. He will serve as guest of honour, guiding the ensemble through a night of high praise and worship.
Mlalazi, who has spent two years with SOP, said being part of the ensemble has transformed him both musically and spiritually.
“SOP is a continental group that has gifted artistes, who use their talents to spread the ministry of God to the rest of the world. As this is the sole principle of the group, I felt the sense of belonging from the first day I joined because the vision coincided with mine, which is to make sure the Gospel reaches everyone,” he said.
The musician, who is nominated at the upcoming Bulawayo Arts Awards for Outstanding Ambassador Worldwide, added that while SOP has taken him to various corners of Africa and Europe, Zimbabwe remains one of the group’s strongest bases of support.
“We’ve been to different places in Africa and Europe, but it seems the group has connected even more with Zimbabwean fans, hence the reason why we’re bringing the Next Level tour in Bulawayo,” said the Ngeke Kulunge hit-maker.
From Johannesburg, Nyathi, recently nominated for a South Africa Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) Crown Gospel Award for Outstanding Music Video for his hit Biggie Biggie, expressed his excitement about performing back home.
“It’s a good feeling to be returning to Zimbabwe with Spirit of Praise, especially in Bulawayo because we have a lot of people from the City of Kings who follow our music.
“SOP is loved all over Africa and in neighbouring countries like Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique. But every time we visit Zimbabwe the feeling is always mutual. The crew has definitely adopted the country as its second home.”
One reason SOP remains a favourite among Zimbabwean gospel fans is its cultural openness. The group has embraced Ndebele and Shona elements in its music, creating a sound that resonates with audiences this side of the Limpopo. Their connection to Zimbabwe has also been strengthened by the inclusion of local artistes, Mlalazi and Nyathi.
