HARARE – Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the renowned South African male choral group and multiple Grammy award winners, have showered praise on local gospel singer Everton Mlalazi, hailing him as “a true classic gospel act.“
The group recently visited Zimbabwe for a special duet performance with Mlalazi at the ‘In His Presence Volume 2‘—Harare edition, and they were pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming love their song received from fans.
The song in question, “Nomakunje,” became an instant favorite, with public demand leading Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Mlalazi to perform it twice on stage, prompting a change in the show’s script.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Sibongiseni Shabalala, a member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, expressed their happiness to be in Zimbabwe and described their collaboration with Mlalazi as a “great journey.”
“He is a good man, a true classic act. We are very happy to be here. We loved the collaboration with Mlalazi. It has been a great journey recording and performing the song. He is gifted,” said Shabalala, acknowledging Mlalazi’s talent.
Additionally, Ladysmith Black Mambazo emphasized their openness to collaborate with other artists in Zimbabwe but expressed their current enjoyment of working with Mlalazi, highlighting the incredible experience they had witnessed.
Coincidentally, the show took place on Mlalazi’s 41st birthday, and in celebration, he treated his fans to a remarkable performance at the 7 Arts Theatre in Harare.
The event was free for Mlalazi’s fans, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement as guests arrived dressed in their finest attire.
The audience consisted of notable figures from the local gospel music scene, business personalities, celebrities, socialites, and diplomats.
Mlalazi captivated the crowd as he took them on a journey through his upbringing, creating an Oprah Winfrey-style question and answer segment with his presenter.
Later, he showcased his talent by performing songs from his albums, keeping the audience engaged and enthusiastic throughout the show.
In addition to the captivating performances by Mlalazi and his two bands, Worship Therapy and The Vine, lucky guests had the opportunity to receive gifts.
Surprisingly, instead of receiving gifts on his birthday, Mlalazi decided to express his gratitude by presenting gifts to his guests.
The climax of the show arrived when Mlalazi’s wife, Gamuchirai, surprised him with an emotionally charged and loving message.
The message, read by radio personality Rebecca Muchenje, affectionately known as “Becky K,” deeply touched Mlalazi.
Overwhelmed with emotion, he embraced his wife, only to be further surprised by the appearance of one of the musicians he grew up listening to—yesteryear gospel icon Prince Mafukidze.
Prince Mafukidze, the unexpected act of the night, performed his hit song “Chitsike,” igniting the entire auditorium with excitement.
The show continued as planned with Mlalazi delivering scintillating performances that left the audience in awe.
In his speech, Mlalazi expressed his desire for the corporate world to support musicians and the arts industry.
“I am happy and I thank God for turning 41 years old, but my wish is for stakeholders to support the arts industry,” he said passionately.
He further emphasized the unity among gospel musicians and the importance of corporate support for big shows and international endeavors.
Mlalazi credited professionalism and consistency as his secret to success in the music industry, pledging to continue working in the business and taking his music to greater heights.
- Editor/ additional report by The Herald Zimbabwe
