Mai Tt Hosts Spectacular Album Launch at Marina Convention Centre

Under the gleaming lights of Marina Convention Centre at Longcheng Plaza in Harare last Saturday, Felistus Murata—widely known as Mai Tt—unveiled her latest album “Tinotenda” in a grand event that drew the who’s who of Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry. 

By Dickson Bandera

The exquisite red carpet event marked by lavish decor, a state-of-the-art PA system, expertly crafted stage, with the dynamic lighting and flawless sound engineering, seemed to have exceeded expectations.

The electrifying, well-choreographed performances by invited artists transformed Marina Convention Centre into an impressive concert venue that could rival other international stages.

For fans who couldn’t attend in person, the event was beamed through a social media live-stream broadcast, allowing supporters from all over the world to tune in.

The launch did not only demonstrate Mai Tt’s evolution as a serious recording artist but also underlined her commitment to elevating the standards of album launches in the country.

The 14-track album is a bold musical statement firmly introducing a serious musician in the gospel industry. Stand out tracks include the title track “Tinotenda” featuring Sipiwe Ndebele, “Anouya,” “Higher Power,” “Handirege Kunamata,” “Life is Too Short,” a collaboration with DJ Call Me and Mr. Brown, and “Vasikana Vane Gumi featuring Mathias Mhere.

According to Mai Tt, some of the songs on this album were composed during her jail time at Chikurubi Maximum Prison.”

Her music falls under contemporary gospel in the class of Minister Mahendere, Sharon Manyonganise or Janet Manyowa.

During her performance before the packed venue, Mai Tt enthralled the audience and delivered an evening of heartfelt performances that gave fans and critics new perspective.

Her performance was powered by the powerful harmonies of over 20 well-dressed backing vocalists and dancers who mesmerized the fans with their well choreographed acts.

Dressed in a pristine white gown, later alternating to a regal purple dress and a vibrant white-and-green ensemble—each outfit symbolized her resilience, confidence and inner strength. 

The appreciative audience cheered and sang along especially during her first song, “Canaan,” a tribute to her late father that channeled both vulnerability and resolve.

 

If anything, Mai Tt’s performance on the night signified her growth from a comedian into an artist of depth and gravitas.

Her journey from a social media humorist to serious recording artist has been an unexpected evolution in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene.”

Known initially for her comedic takes on everyday life, Mai Tt has made a name for herself as a socialite and actress, captivating audiences with her unique ability to blend humor and storytelling. 

Indeed, her journey from making light of life’s daily struggles to an artist tackling raw, complex themes speaks to her evolution and resilience. 

Through collaborations with artists like Baba Harare, Freeman, Nelly K, Prophet T Freddy, and Shantel Sithole, she has tasted success in the music industry with a couple of hit singles.

Despite her forays into music, Mai Tt has remained a staple in the acting and socialite circles, where she holds her own at the top of the scene. Her comedic storytelling, often tackling life’s hardships, has resonated deeply with Zimbabweans, making her a relatable and beloved figure.”

Her recent shift to music, however, has opened a new chapter. Through her songs, she has begun to explore themes of loss, faith, and resilience—touching on the strength found in struggle. 

This new path has allowed her to connect with her audience on a deeper level, showing that there is more to her talent than just humor.

Tracks like “Canaan” and “Life is Too Short” reveal a depth and openness that have endeared her even more to her audience, who see not only her resiliency but her standing as a musician.

The launch event was a powerful gathering, as some of Zimbabwe’s prominent religious figures and top influencers united to show their support for a fellow community figure, Mai Tt. 

Leading the spiritual delegation were Pastor George, Prophetess Memory Matimbire, Prophet T Freddy, Polician and Evangelist Paddington Japajapa, Pastor Kudakwashe Jose, Prophetess Tino, and Pastor Preston Maporisa, among others.

Renowned gospel artists such as Dorcas Moyo, Mathias Mhere, Shantel Sithole, and Prince Chigwida also gave memorable performances, further enriching the atmosphere and deepening the audience’s connection to the night. Their presence set a reverent tone, reflecting the deep bonds within the spiritual community.

Vabati VaJehovha put up a solid performance with harmonious voices and synchronized dance moves. Dressed in green and white, the group brought a touch of nostalgia, revisiting hits that introduced their genre to Zimbabwe. Their presence at the event demonstrated a sense of unity within the entertainment industry.

Adding a burst of vibrancy to the event, an array of celebrated content creators joined the occasion, testimony to Mai Tt’s rising influence across social media. Familiar faces like Mbuya vaPiyasoni, Bee weZhira, Ginimbi Lite and his bouncer Big Mero, Amai Jilimba, Chale Dhafu, Kudzila, Amai Rudo Skits and Gringo Jnr brought the entertainment factor to a whole new level. 

This powerful mix of spiritual leaders and entertainment icons made for a memorable event was evidence of Mai Tt’s unique appeal and reach across different communities. Evidently, the gathering served as a reminder of the profound connection between Zimbabwe’s faith community and its entertainment world—each lending support, encouragement, and celebration in honor of one of their own.

In his address, Prophet T Freddy shared heartfelt reflections on his relationship with Mai Tt revealing that she was among the first to reach out to him in times of adversity, especially after the City Council demolished his church in Glenview. 

The Goodness and Mercy Ministries founder implored fans to appreciate artists like Mai Tt and avoid unnecessary criticism fueled by social media, emphasizing the importance of standing together.

Pahasha TV Director Alphonce Manyara commended Mai Tt’s unwavering commitment, noting the sophistication of the night. 

“She has remarkable talent, and her dedication to this event speaks volumes. The setup reflects a high level of professionalism and a real investment in her craft,” he said.

One of the most moving segments was the performance by serving prisoners who were accompanied by a Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service delegation led by Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi. 

The prisoners, including Tino Katsande and Chigudogudo performed three songs much to the delight of the fans.

The presence of prisoners at such a night event is part of ZPCS’s rehabilitative measures which are seeking to connect prisoners with the outside world, in an effort to build them into good citizens.

In the end, Amai Titi’s Saturday night performance will be remembered as a defining moment in her career. It will go down as a testament to her growth, professionalism, and the powerful transformation of a woman who has used art to rise above challenges. 

If she can sustain her act and feed her vision going forward, she has what it takes to become a big gospel artist.

With this event, Mai Tt has undoubtedly marked her place in Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry as an artist of remarkable depth and vision.