Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Gospel music lovers in Bulawayo flocked into the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre on Sunday, to start the festive season through exciting praise and worship music, as South African Gospel outfit Spirit of Praise brought their local edition of the Next Level tour to the city of Kings.
The event was sold out as the hall — which has a capacity of holding 5 200 people, was filled to the brim.
The event marked the second time for SOP to perform in Bulawayo as they also visited the city last year.
However, their recent appearance attracted multitudes, as the group’s loyal fans witnessed the local launch of the Spirit of Praise Volume 11 project. The event started at 6pm, with celebrated master of ceremony Mbo Mahocs taking care of the stage, as she was responsible for introducing the acts.
Local acts, Vocal Base, Vocal Ex and Dunamis Men, were roped into the line-up in the last hour. Their inclusion was important in warming up the stage and making sure when the main acts were in the house, the atmosphere and the tone of the event was set.
Vocal Ex were among the fans’ favourites as they were called to perform on stage twice. They performed a cover song titled Uyikho Konke, originally done by Joyous Celebration’s Nozipho Phiri, as well as Nothando Hlophe’s rendition of the Methodist Medley.
At 7:30pm, the SOP cast was introduced on stage. The ensemble comprised Ayanda Ntanzi, Dumi Mkokstad, Lufuno Dagada, Mpumi Mtsweni, Omega Khunou, Sindi Ntombela, Xola Toto and veteran vocalist Zaza Mokhethi.
Zimbabwean gospel sensations Everton Mlalazi and Canaan Nyathi — who are now regular collaborators with SOP — were also part of the set-up. Adding prestige to the event was the legendary Pastor Mthunzi Namba, who attended as guest of honour.
Psalmist and songbird Sindi Ntombela opened the stage for SOP as she fused singing and ministering perfectly. Amongst her songs, she presented her rendition and interpretation of the song “Let Your Living Waters Flow” — and it was popular with revellers.
Soon after Ntombela, the group’s newest member, Xola Toto, performed “Speak Lord,” which is her contribution to the group’s 11th project. Her prowess in voice control charmed many as people couldn’t resist her voice on the mic. She proved why she deserves to be affiliated with SOP.
The show wouldn’t have been that much exciting without the inclusion of veteran member Zaza Mokhethi — who returned recently to be part of the group, as she brought a touch of nostalgia in her performance and dancing skills. She belted out her signature song Namhla Nkosi, which reminded and connected revellers to the foundation of SOP.
After Zaza, Mpumi Mtsweni delivered Nangu Mthokozisi as well as Sibuyise, the one song that introduced her to the SOP family.
When the ladies were done with their performances, the legendary Pastor Mthunzi Namba took over as he brought praise vibes to the venue with his song “Sweet Jesus” that kept many on their feet. Omega Khunou, who played a crucial part in stage management, introduced Lufuno Dagada, a Venda musician who brought great elements to the line-up, as he also managed to sing songs in Shona that resonated with many.
After Dagada, the youthful Ayanda Ntanzi brought a fusion of praise and worship as he performed songs including, “Oh Alellujah” and “Imimoyo.” On his set, he also managed to pay tribute to his mentor and inspiration, the late Sfiso Ncwane as he performed a cover of the late’s “Amen.”
It’s always an advantage for one to perform on home soil and Canaan Nyathi mastered this very well as he delivered his latest song “Usibiyele” with great exception.
He was hailed as a wordsmith, gifted in penning songs that speak to one’s mind and soul, as his latest composition combined Gospel and Afro Jazz, weaved with lyrics that declare God’s willingness to protect his flock.
Nyathi passed on the baton to Tsholotsho-born gospel musician Everton Mlalazi, who did the rendition of Ndinomira paJordan both in Shona and Ndebele. Ndinomira paJordan’s core message is about looking forward to a heavenly home after life’s struggles. Mlalazi also performed “Ekhaya”, a song that many could identify with. When all was said and done, the “poster boy” Dumi Mkokstad took to the stage as he introduced himself with Asikho Isikhali. In his closing remarks, Mkokstad revealed that SOP is definitely coming once more to Bulawayo next year, as he appreciated the hospitality and love they received in the City of Kings.
