Arts Reporter
Zimbabwe’s acclaimed acapella gospel music group, Firm Faith Zimbabwe, recently showcased their talent on the international stage with a sold-out concert and album launch in Lusaka, the Zambian capital.
Following successful launches of their ninth album, ‘Munesimba,’ in Harare and Bulawayo, the group embarked on an experimental regional tour, beginning with Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) neighbor, Zambia.
The Seventh-Day Adventist Church group deliberately chose to start their regional launch in Zambia, opting for the large 6,000-capacity Blessing Center auditorium, which they filled to capacity.
“The concert lived up to its billing. People from all walks of life, young and old, expressed their disappointment when the concert concluded,” said Firm Faith music director, Marshal Matsilele.
“It was epic and personally very rewarding. I want to thank the audience; they were singing along to all our songs. It was a truly humbling experience. The venue was large, but our brothers and sisters from the blessed country of Zambia came in great numbers and filled it. Of course, others came from Namibia and Zimbabwe, but the majority were Zambians,” he added.
Matsilele expressed his happiness that they had successfully represented both God and Zimbabwe beyond the country’s borders.
He further noted, “I was taken aback that during our performances, the audience remained on their feet. One could have been forgiven for thinking it was an end-of-year celebration. The audience was overjoyed, singing and worshipping wholeheartedly.”
“What particularly amused us in Zambia was the enthusiastic response to almost all our songs. We truly felt at home away from home. Zambia showed us real love.”
“I want to thank everyone who contributed to the success of our inaugural regional tour: the organizers, our sponsors, the security, our staff, and our fans who braved the chilly night. We won’t take that for granted.”
“We truly appreciate the support we received from all stakeholders; it has made us who we are,” Matsilele added.
Matsilele stated that the Zambian experience highlighted the paramount importance of video recordings, online music platforms, church invitations, radio, newspaper, and television interviews, as well as social media, in publicizing their brand and work widely.
“We have decided to host a concert like this annually here in Zambia.”
“Our next stop is South Africa in September this year, and we hope it will be much bigger and better,” Matsilele said.
He added, “Songs such as ‘Shoko reNgirozi Nhatu,’ ‘Munesimba,’ ‘Ngena Noah,’ ‘I’m on my way,’ ‘Nginomhlobo,’ and ‘Tenzi nditungamire,’ among others, resonated well with the Zambians. They were singing in Shona and IsiNdebele as if they were their native languages; it was amazing.”
The guest of honor, Force Commander of the Zambian National Service, Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi, praised the event’s success and commended Firm Faith for dedicating their time and resources to preaching, healing, and delivering people from various earthly burdens through their music.
He congratulated Firm Faith on launching their album in Zambia and applauded the group for their collaboration with various Zambian gospel groups.
“What you have done today has strengthened the already existing ties between our two sister countries.”
“You have demonstrated that music is indeed a universal language. I commend you for that. Today’s event has placed both Zimbabwe and Zambia on the international map. Thank you for that,” said Lieutenant Solochi.
“May God bless you and your ministry,” he added.
Firm Faith shared the stage with Zambian groups including The Divine Trumpets, Loud Cry, The Promise, and Rudo Acapella.
Firm Faith members who traveled to Zambia were Marshall Matsilele (group founder and music director), Kudzai Paula Matsilele, Michaela Matsilele, Peamer Tanhara Maponga, Wadzanai Moyo, Primrose Ndlovu Moyo, Sharon Muparadzi, Peniel Tambama, Lisa Chinyama, Theophelous Nyamidzi, Tinashe Muhoni, Tendekai Mukawu, Mathew Mhembere, Chiratidzo Tobaiwa, and Anotida Chikandiwa.
Firm Faith gained prominence in 2010 after winning the talent search show, Harare Got Talent.