Janet Manyowa and Takesure Zamar Ncube at Wanqoba
Entertainment Writer
The long queues that formed outside ZITF hall 3, in Bulawayo continued to swell as the buzz of musical instruments inside Wanqoba concert venue kept hundreds in uneasy expectation.
As the anticipation reached the climax, the gates were opened for the expectant crowd.
Stunned by the world class stage work done by Events Evolution, many could be seen marveling at how gospel musicians have gone a notch higher in hosting shows.
Inside this hall, memories of a lifetime were created-indeed some that will never be forgotten.
Award winning songstress, Janet Manyowa combined some of the finest local and regional artists to create magical moments in Zimbabwe second largest city.
Manyowa who is well known in the gospel circles for pushing boundaries, hosting memorable shows, was at it again on Saturday.
Getting on stage after an interlude by her back up singers, adorned in blue double breast suits, turtleneck sweaters and white sneakers, Manyowa gave it all.
Recording her new album My Father’s house in Bulawayo was a dream come true for the chart-topping singer, who had been flirting with the idea of gracing the City of Kings and Queens for years.
Dry Bones and My Father’s house where she featured legendary dub poet Albert Nyathi proved to be crowd favourites.
Nyathi, a popular figure in Bulawayo was drowned in wild cheers from thousands who had now gathered by evening.
The heartfelt worship sent many into frenzied adoration as some sang along, while others stood in awe of the excellence on display.
Her band complemented her lyrical prowess, blended by other instruments like the violin.
The crowd could not hide its excitement when Bonnie Dueschle, emerged from the backstage to deliver a powerful song alongside Manyowa.
“I am excited to do this song with my Pastor,” Manyowa said to cheers.
As the set was nearing the end, Manyowa upped the tempo as she completed a flawless set.
Her second set was a concert after a hot performance by South African songbird, Ntokozo Mbambo, whose popular tune, When I Remember got the crowd singing along.
Now dressed in white apparel with inscribed with the letter M and a heart shape, Manyowa delivered a high energy performance, starting her set with Zadzisa.
During her set, she collaborated with Takesure Zamar on Mutsvene and Micheal Mahendere , on Makanaka Jesu.
Mahendere did not disappoint sending thousands into dance with another hit Ndibobunda Pakaoma.
As Manyowa ended her set, she thanked her adoring fans for attending the show.
But she was not done just yet.
The high energy Vaudze kept fans on their toes as they danced to the traditional fused song, which she translated into Ndebele.
“Batshele ukuthi siyanqoba” loosely translated to Tell Them That We Are Victors.
To close the curtain on an epic show was South Africa based, Takesure Zamar Ncube, who gave the night a befitting end.
What was apparent during the 7-hour-show, which saw groups like Harvest Music Choir, Vocal Ex, Mai Mwamuka, Pastor G, Sipho Snowy and Wenyasha stage top performances, is that gospel music is still a force in Zimbabwe!
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