Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
UPCOMING gospel artistes are seeking collaborations with their established counterparts to unleash new voices on the market so that the industry grows through unity and appreciation.
The rising stars believe that mentorship and joint projects between seasoned and emerging artistes can strengthen Zimbabwe’s gospel footprint both locally and abroad.
At the same time, many gospel artistes in the diaspora are calling on local radio stations to play their music more often, arguing that it helps them stay connected to home and maintain a shared cultural identity.
They believe radio airplay is a vital link that can bridge the gap between those in Zimbabwe and those spreading the gospel message across borders.
One such voice is Tafadzwa “Minstrel Taffie” Mtetah, a gospel minister based in Australia but originally from Zimbabwe, who has become a strong advocate for collaboration and connection in gospel music.
“There’s so much talent in Zimbabwe and across the Diaspora,” she said.
“If we work together the upcoming and the established, we can lift each other and grow the ministry in ways we’ve never seen before. Gospel music is not a competition; it’s a calling.”
Taffie, who works as a Mental Health Registered Nurse by profession, said she balances her career with music.
“My work in health allows me to give back while caring for people,” she said. “Music is another form of healing spiritual healing.
That’s why collaboration is so important; we are all trying to touch lives.”
The Australia-based artiste said while she has received support from fellow creatives, more still needs to be done to bridge the gap between Zimbabwean artists at home and those abroad.
“We need radio shows, community events, and collaborations that include gospel artists in the diaspora,” she said. “Our voices also carry the Zimbabwean story, even though we are far from home.”
She added that radio stations back home play a key role in keeping diasporan artists connected.
“When local stations play our songs, it reminds us that we are still part of the family,” she said. “It also helps our music reach audiences in Zimbabwe who may not have access to our platforms in the diaspora. Airplay is one of the strongest bonds we have left.”
Taffie’s music is deeply rooted in faith and experience. She began singing in the United Methodist Church and says her calling came naturally.
“I grew up in church surrounded by worship and choirs,” she said. “From a young age, I knew I wanted to serve God through music. It’s how I express faith, hope, and gratitude.”
Now preparing to release her debut single, Taffie said her music carries themes of renewal and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Her songs, produced by Mark Madzinga and visually directed by Brendon Rangwani, were shot in scenic locations in Zimbabwe to capture the connection between creation, culture and spirituality.
“Each song tells a story of my journey — from prayer to breakthrough,” she said. “The visuals are meant to show God’s beauty and presence in our daily lives.”
Reflecting on her journey, Taffie said gospel artists should see themselves as part of one mission.
“There’s no small or big artist e in the Kingdom,” she said. “We all serve the same God and have one purpose to spread His word through song.
Supporting one another only strengthens that mission.”
She encouraged established artists to mentor upcoming ones and open their platforms to collaboration.
“Imagine if every big name worked with one new artist every year,” she said with a smile. “The growth would be amazing — and the mess0age would reach even more souls. Unity is what keeps gospel music alive.”
