Gospel music fans were on Friday treated to a special occasion at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe where South African gospel choir Joyous Celebration performed for the first time in Malawi.
The auditorium was filled with patrons who enjoyed being in God’s presence through music.
Gospel musician Debbie N, popularly known as the Amapiano Queen, was first to take the stage, setting the mood for what lay ahead.
The Great Angels Choir followed with another lively performance that showcased their preparedness even though they were not the main act of the night.
It performed their hit songs such as Mwasankha Ineyo, Sindipita and Kodi Alipo?
Next was Ndirande Anglican Voices, the Ndimamvesera Kumwamba composers that won the Best Gospel Song at the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation Entertainers of the Year Awards 2024. It also delivered a great and engaging performance with songs such as Mundisunge, Ndimamvesera Kumwamba and Aleluya.
When Joyous Celebration took to the stage, the audience moved closer for an up-close view. .
It delivered an unforgettable performance, singing non-stop for three hours. Lead singers took turns on stage, each bringing a fresh touch and rhythm to the performance.
The choir also performed a Chichewa hymn to the amazement of the audience who sang along.
After the show, the group’s founder and director Lindelani Mkhize commended the Malawian audience, saying they pushed the choir to give their best.
“Somehow, it felt like home. Everything was a surprise because we did not know the attendees were so familiar with our music. They sang songs that are not even in their language. It was really amazing to perform in front of such an audience,” he said.
Mkhize added that they look forward to building relationships with local Malawian choirs to conduct masterclasses and workshops, sharing musical knowledge that could benefit them.
Psalms Celebration leader Godfrey Zulu expressed excitement about bringing Joyous Celebration to Malawi.
He added that the organising team is already working on plans for next year.
“We are returning next year. We will soon announce the artist we are bringing. We have already engaged Nigerian gospel musician Nathaniel Bassey and we are hoping all goes well,” said Zulu.
