CELEBRATED gospel musician Everton Mlalazi’s unique blend of contemporary worship resonates not only in Zimbabwe but across borders.
NewsDay Weekender Life & Style’s Tendai Sauta (ND) sits down with Mlalazi (EM) in a candid conversation that delves into his musical journey, ministry-driven approach and his vision for the future of gospel music.
ND: How did your journey into gospel music begin, and what inspired you to pursue this path?
EM: My journey began very early in life. I sang in church choirs and led music under my father’s guidance.
Professionally, however, my music career started in 2014 when I formed The Vine group.
ND: How does this philosophy influence your song writing and performances, and how do you ensure your music stays rooted in faith?
EM: For me, calling these moments “performances” doesn’t fully capture what we do.
Music in ministry goes far beyond entertainment and it’s about creating an atmosphere where people can encounter God.
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I firmly believe that ministry through music is not something that can be scripted or scheduled; it’s a divine encounter.
To ensure my music reflects my faith, I stay anchored in Christ.
ND: What do you think has contributed to the Vine Music Ministry longevity, and how does it complement your solo work?
EM: The Vine was the foundation of my solo career, and the journey with them has been invaluable.
We spent years finding our sound, which is why our first album didn’t come out until 2018, even though The Vine was established in 2014.
Those formative years of growth and discovery taught us patience and resilience.
That same commitment to our unique sound now influences my solo work, where I continue to stay true to what we built together.
ND: How did your collaboration with Ladysmith Black Mambazo come about?
EM: Collaboration is about building relationships, and my work with Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a testament to that.
It stemmed from connections I’ve nurtured over the years.
Working with them was an enlightening experience and in addition they are the epitome of grace, discipline and authenticity.
I’ve learned so much from their example, especially in staying grounded no matter how far one’s career goes.
ND: Your latest album, In The Presence Vol. 2 — God’s Grace, was released earlier this year. How does this album differ from your debut, and what message do you hope listeners take from it?
EM: In The Presence Vol. 2 is centred around one central theme, God’s grace.
Every track reflects moments in my life where God’s favour was the only explanation for how things turned out.
The album is a reminder that God’s presence is with us even in the mundane moments, like waking up or having a meal on our table.
My hope is that listeners hear that message and find comfort in knowing they are never alone.
ND: What do awards and accolades mean to you?
EM: To me, these awards are not about competition, but about validation.
They remind me that the work we do in gospel music is serious and impactful.
They fuel my desire to keep striving for excellence in ministry.
ND: Your live performances, such as the Ekhaya Worship Festival, are a huge part of your brand. What’s been your most memorable performance?
EM: My most memorable performance was at the first Ekhaya Worship Festival in Bulawayo.
My daughter, Natasha, surprised me by performing my newly released song Angeke Kulunge.
ND: Looking ahead, what do you think the future holds for Zimbabwean gospel music, and where do you see yourself in the next five to 10 years?
EM: The future of Zimbabwean gospel music is very promising. Artistes are producing world-class music, and the industry continues to evolve.
