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Simbarashe Mutizwa Showbiz Reporter
MUGOVE hitmaker Leonard Zhakata is expected to perform in Bulawayo briefly next weekend when he comes to judge the United Family International Church (UFIC) music talent show.
The talent show will be held at the Bulawayo UFIC premises on July 19 to recognise and promote up-and-coming local gospel artistes in the city.
Zhakata, who is now a pastor at UFIC, will be accompanied by two other music legends who are yet to confirm their Bulawayo trip.
The Mugove hit-maker, who last performed in Bulawayo at a gala at White City stadium in 2011, said his Bulawayo visit would be special as he would also perform at the talent search.
“I am going to be performing at the talent search but it is not going to be a main performance as I am scheduled to be a judge.
“I am happy that such a platform is being created for young aspiring artistes. Many people have been engulfed in the newcomer genre, dancehall and it is very good that talent should be found in Bulawayo,” he said.
Zhakata said gospel music in Zimbabwe was growing and heading in the right direction as many up-and-coming gospel artistes were doing exceptionally well.
“I’m confident to say that gospel musicians in Zimbabwe are going in the right direction. The music is mature and good.
“It’s very important that we groom people who know what they are doing so that they can be good ambassadors of the gospel,” he said.
Head of UFIC sound team Kenneth Pfigu said the talent search would be an open platform for talented up-and-coming gospel musicians in the city.
“The contest is going to offer an opportunity to young talented gospel artistes so they realise their full potential.
Interested singers will be required to pay a registration fee of $50 which is going to be used in some administrative work,” he said.
Pfigu added that winners of the talent search were going to walk away with record deals from one of the city’s top studios.
“The winners are going to benefit greatly as they will get an opportunity to record a five-track album under Rus Studios.
“The first runner up will have a chance to record three tracks while the second runner up will be awarded with an opportunity to record two tracks,” he said.
derick.khumalo