Chronicle Editor
Faith Ndlovu, Sunday Life Reporter
RENOWNED gospel group, Vocal Ex has proved its worth and stamped its position as one of Bulawayo’s premier gospel outfits as they were the only act from outside Harare to perform at the Kingdom Tour concert that was held in the capital.
The concert featured Maverick City and Kirk Franklin at Glamis Arena last Monday.
The concert, whose roster was filled with superstar acts from across the globe, was for many, one of the highlights of Zimbabwe’s arts calendar this year as it brought the cream of gospel music to their fans’ doorsteps.
After a night of praise and worship, among high-powered names, Thembelani Mdlazi, the leader of Vocal Ex, described the experience as “overwhelming and humbling”.
“We were curious about how people would receive our ministry, singing and songs, but the fact that people had voted for us to be there inspired us,” he said.
“The reception was incredible, with the audience singing their songs even after they left the stage. People kept singing our songs when we were literally off the stage. They were even calling us back. We had to go back and sing one of our songs. The reception for Vocal Ex was just too amazing. It was so inspirational. It was a confirmation that we are doing something right,” he said.
Mdlazi also gave a nod to the excellence and professionalism of Maverick City and Kirk Franklin.
“Their level of excellence and professionalism in terms of music and their art in general is something that we drove back home talking about and embracing. It inspired us to take stock of what we are doing and how we are doing it. We indeed learnt a thing or two,” said Mdlazi.
The Kingdom Tour Concert came at a strategic time for Vocal X as it was held just after their 10th-anniversary concert and DVD recording in June.
“The concert exposed us to a wider audience. Many people got to know and learn about us. It will have a positive impact on how people respond to us when we release our music in September. We learned that we need to create platforms to spread our brand and ministry beyond our city’s borders. Consistency is key and we’re inspired to learn more, prepare our songs and respect the art,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu