Mlaka’s first gospel show

Mlaka Maliro makes his first stage appearance in gospel garbs when he headlines the launch of Great Angels Choir’s Ndiyende Bwanji CD and DVD at Sheaffer Marquee in Lilongwe next Sunday.

 

Since the release of Dzanja la Lemba debut in 1997, the one-time top-selling artist has cultivated a steady audience with a mesmerising mix of biblical and social sayings. However, he had to wait until December last year to announce his full switch to the gospel side of the local beat.

In an interview, Great Angels Choir music director Ephraim Zonda said it was an honour to have Mlaka at the launch of their third album,  comprising Thamanda (featuring George Mkandawire),  Ndisiyeni Ndiyende and Sindipita which are enjoying massive airplay on MBC, AFJ and CFC TVs.

Zonda disclosed that the slick-voiced hitmaker of Mlaka is Mlaka catchphrase will make his gospel debut alongside Mkandawire, Peter Sambo and Malawian Music Awards best gospel star Grace Chinga, who was named Women of Distinction Awards best female artist last week.

“We are glad to be associated with Mlaka Maliro and count it as a blessing to give him a stage to launch his gospel career.  Also part of the Ndiyende Bwanji DVD and CD  launch are the award-winning Chinga, George Mkandawire and Peter Sambo,” said Zonda.

He said other guest performers include Peter Mlangeni, Kamuzu Barracks Singers,  Evance Meleka and Masintha Chitsitsimutso Women Choir.

Great Angels, a Lilongwe-based Church of African Presbyterian choir, was launched in the late 1980s. Their first studio work was Mundifungatire album, launched in 2005.

In 2009, they shelled the airwaves with their sophomore release, Gwireni Dzanja becoming a household hit. Sales of the hit album are estimated at 50 000 cassettes and 5 000 CDs.

According to Zonda, their latest CD has already sold about 2 000 cassettes and 300 CDs, but the first DVD, shot by MC Studios,  will be auctioned at the launch at Sheaffer, the capital’s gospel haven.

On April 1, Zonda and company will relaunch Ndiyende Bwanji at Katoto Secondary School in Mzuzu.

The last launch will take place at Comesa Hall in Blantyre on April 8.

All shows will be backed by Gracian Mokoena’s Impact Band.

Last week, the choir was at HHI Secondary School in Blantyre—  putting the final stroke on their playlist along with the band.