RISING gospel musician Tatenda Mandaza says music speaks to people in a way that touches their souls and communicates with them when words fail to do so.
Although the phrase is originally attributed to Danish author and poet Hans Christian Andersen, it has resonated with Mandaza, highlighting the power of music to evoke emotions and disseminate messages.
A police officer by profession, Mandaza who is also Leonard Zhakata and Vabati vaJehovah’s die-hard fan, told NewsDay Life & Style that he was exposed to music from a tender age at a Salvation Army Church choir. The musician was part of the Incarnation Brothers.
The group entertained people at gatherings like funerals and Mandaza was one of the best drummers in the choir. The musician then dedicated his time after work to engage in making music that soothes souls and provides a pathway for healing which culminated in the release of his debut album Kuenda Mberi in 2021.
The album has five tracks including Kuenda Mberi, Nditungamirei, Ndokutendai, Tichakunda, Ndichamuona and Muponesi which all spoke to people in different ways.
“My personal experiences and how l witnessed people living pushed me to compose music. There are so many challenges in life and people need a message of hope to guide them in times of trials and tribulations,” he said.
After enduring good and unpleasant experiences life had thrown at him, Mandaza urges people to remain steadfast during times of adversity and pin their hopes on Christ.
Although financial challenges have been an obstacle, Mandaza persevered and will release his second album Nyika Inorema on digital online platforms this Saturday.
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Mandaza described the eight-track album as a message of hope and encourages believers of Christ to embrace gratitude for grace poured upon them.
The album contains songs such as Tsungirira, Makomborero, Nyasha DzaMwari, Munondida, Kuchema Kwangu, Tarira Kuna Baba, Nyaya Dzangu and Ndakanzwa Jesu Achiti derived from the Salvation Army hymn 176.
The gospel musician yearns to network with fellow artistes, build relationships and collaborate with counterparts.
