As we round up the women’s month, we choose to celebrate some of the iconic women in the Zimbabwean gospel music scene. Artists who have and still contribute to the growth of Gospel Music in Zimbabwe.
Ivy kASI
Former director of the Gospel Train Records and co-founder of the Nguva Yakwana Celebrations gospel shows which incorporated South African artistes such as Vuyo Mokoena and Buhle, Ivy is one of the most celebrated female gospel artiste in Zimbabwe. She was back in Zimbabwe sometime last year from UK where she has lived for many years.
She is making plans to revive Nguva Yakwana Gospel Concert.
Janet Manyowa
Running with the times, the new generation female musician has taken gospel music to a whole other level.
Her music, videos and concerts reveal hard work combined with raw talent to present a vibrant performance. Her music videos including Zadzisa and many many blessings are not your usual gospel videos and catch the eye of the tech exposed generation.
Jacqueline Madondo
Her music made waves beyond her life on earth with “Mazuva acho” becoming a hit in its year of release. The talented artist was also part of the Ruvhuvhuto sisters with Ivy Kombo, Plaxedes Wenyika and Fortune Matenga. The group released a tourism supporting track “Welcome to Victoria Falls” which had an appealing video.
The late Jackie was one of the most celebrated female musicians in Zimbabwe.
Shingisai Suluma
Probably one of the veterans in the genre with her first album released in 1995. Upon relocating to the USA, her music has since evolved to cater for the language differences. She told Newsday in 2018 that she was more involved in music as a worship leader in American churches. Her popular songs include “Maitiro enyu” and “Fara zvakadaro”. Amai Shingisai also holds a qualification in textiles and was engaged in high school teaching before she left Zimbabwe.
She is one of the most respected names in the Zimbabwean gospel scene and is often referred to as Amai Shingisai Suluma.
Mai Olivia Charamba
Starting her career as a backing vocalist to her husband, Mai Charamba successfully made it to an award winning artist in her own right. Together with her husband, they formed Rooted in Christ Ministries which they lead in fellowship.
Some of her famous tracks include “Ndiri Munana”, “Manger”, “Musimboti” and “Pasi idandaro”.
Bethany Pasinawako Ngolimo
Her debut album “Ndinzverei” did very well with the title track instantly becoming a hit. Together with her husband and co-member at xtreme Afrique Choir, they ventured into farming to generate funds to support orphans. They have demonstrated their christianity, not only in celebrating God and sharing the Gospel, but also in loving and taking care of His sheep.
Carol Mujokoro
Known to be a paater at ZAOGA, Carol has been in the music business since early 1990. Her prominent work includes “Ndinokudai Jesu”, “Vimba NaJehova” and “Kutenda”, with EGEA Gospel Train and solo projects including “Ropa RaJesu”.
Charity Zisengwe
The Zimbabwean intercessor, inspirational speaker, bible teacher, records contemporary Christian music. She founded Glory Fields Ministries in 2006. Her music reflects a cross cultural fusion of contemporary Christian and world music. Charity’s popular songs include “All things new” from the album “Prayers and worship” which she released after witnessing poverty in Zimbabwe when she relocated back from the USA.
This may not be the list of all female Zimbabwean artists in Christian and gospel music but it does explore some of the prominent ones. We celebrate them and their music which continues to lay footprints in our hearts as they lead us through a spiritual journey especially during trying times.
Happy women’s month once again and let us choose to continue to support women beyond the month of March.
earground 