Chronicle Editor
Sandisiwe Gumbo, Sunday Life Reporter
ZIMBABWEAN gospel artistes Everton Mlalazi from Harare and Canaan Nyathi from Matabeleland North Province have been nominated for the annual Crown Gospel Awards 2023 in South Africa set for the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg tonight.
Founded by Zanele Mbokazi, the Crown Gospel Awards are one of the many exciting programmes of the World Gospel Powerhouse and are a platform for saluting, celebrating and rewarding excellence within the gospel music industry in South Africa and beyond.
The awards have been won by Zimbabwe gospel artistes like Takesure Zama in 2018 for the song “Ngidinga Wena”, receiving the Best of Africa Award.
In this 16th Edition of the Crown Gospel Awards, Mlalazi has been nominated for the Best of Africa Gospel award and will be competing with six nominees from Botswana and Nigeria, while Nyathi has been nominated for the Best Gospel Album category.
According to Glodine Makapela, the publicity and media relations manager for the event, the Crown Gospel Awards are not just about celebrating musical talent, they also showcase fashion, style and couture designs.
The audience can look forward to discovering new designers and experiencing the creativity of the African fashion scene.
“The Crowns Awards are not only a night of spectacular performances and awards, but also a showcase of fashion, style and couture designs. The Gold Carpet will be graced by the crème de la crème of African fashionistas, influencers, gospel artistes and public figures. This will be a night to remember, with an atmosphere of glitz and glamour,” she said.
“You’ll be able to spot the latest trends, discover new designers and experience the creativity of the African fashion scene.”
The awards ceremony will feature performances from some of the best in gospel music, including Jumbo, Ntokozo Ngongoma, Ayanda Ntanzi, and the Tshwane Gospel Choir.
“The stage has been decked out with stunning lights, a giant dome and the finest sound system to make this the most spectacular and unforgettable Crowns Awards yet,” Makapela stated.
“Get ready for an evening of incredible performances from the best in gospel music.”
The event promises to be a top tier star-studded affair with media personalities, gospel musicians, music producers, and executives from across Africa expected to grace the occasion.
“This will be a night where fashion meets music, and anything goes. From the moment the first artiste steps onto the stage to the final encore, you’ll be on the edge of your seat. Get ready for an extra special night. Prepare to be inspired and amazed by the power of gospel music and the incredible performers who will grace the stage.”
Bongani Ndlovu