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Zhakata leads gospel musicians

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WHICH songs would Leonard Zhakata play at a gospel concert? This is likely to be the topical question ahead of a gospel concert

WHICH songs would Leonard Zhakata play at a gospel concert? This is likely to be the topical question ahead of a gospel concert featuring musicians from Emmanuel Makandiwa’s United Family International Church (UFIC) set for City Sports Centre on November 2.

Report by Entertainment Reporter

Zhakata, a UFIC member, leads a contigent of gospel artistes to perform at the concert, yet the musician is known more for his secular hits than compositions with gospel inclination.

Since joining the church and being promised a pastoral post, Zhakata has not been clear on whether he would release gospel songs or maintain the genre that propelled him to fame. He, however, continues to stage shows outside gospel parameters. One of such secular shows would be a gig at Pick ‘n’ Save in Mutare tomorrow when he shares the stage with Oliver Mtukudzi and Jah Prayzah.

The future shape of Zhakata’s music career remains unclear and his performance at the UFIC concert, dubbed “The Family Show”, might provide a clue.

Barring genres, Zhakata is the most experienced musician on the concert line-up and virtually the main act of the show that features the likes of Mahendere Brothers, Joyce Simeti, Gospel Power, Diva Mafunga and little-known Linia Utete.

Speaking to NewsDay yesterday, the musician said he has always been a worshipper through his music in a unique way.

“I have always praised and thanked God through many of my songs,” Zhakata said.

“It was a unique way of worshipping that I would not classify under the gospel or secular tags. It was just my way of honouring my creator and I am happy most of such songs were received well at UFIC when I joined the church.”

From his current discography, the Mugove-hitmaker is likely to pluck tracks like Kundiso, Shingiso, Pane Ariko and Tarisiro that carry worship lyrics. Zhakata refused to divulge the nature of his next release.

Organisers of the UFIC concert said the event was a way of celebrating music talent in the church and creating a social get-together space for gospel music followers in general.