The Sunday Mail
Desire Ncube
AFTER scooping two Zimbabwe Music Awards, gospel musician Janet Manyowa came under a barrage of criticism, particularly for being named the Best Female Artiste.
The general sentiment is that Manyowa deserved the Best Newcomer accolade but is not yet ripe to be named the Best Female Artiste.
However, she argued that she deserved the two awards as she has worked hard to earn them.
“I know that I did my best last year, there is nothing I could have done in 2015 that I didn’t do.
“I worked hard, we pushed the quality of production, our printed material, our press kits, we dominated on all radio stations. We were perfect, we tried to be a step ahead.
“To be honest, my sixth sense told me that I was going to get something from Zima. However, the nominations were good enough for me,” she said.
The 31-year-old accountant said she intends to penetrate other African countries.
“I have been getting invitations from the region; especially from South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.”
Manyowa is working with a Kenyan and a South African artist on various songs. However, she could not divulge their names citing professional reasons.
She said she needs to learn more about music and write more songs.
“l also need to spend more time in prayer, that is the only way I will not deviate from my calling.
“I am really overwhelmed that my music is changing lives, it is also giving me strength to push when the going gets tough.”
She has already started working on a new album and says that it will be released in 2017.
Manyowa is doing well on the Star FM Gospel Greats with the song “Kune Muponesi” which features Pastor Michael Mahendere. Meanwhile, gospel artiste Takesure Zamar Ncube and the Worship Addicts’ exploits in ministering the word of God through music were honoured last Thursday when they won the Best Contemporary Gospel Album at the Zimbabwe Music Awards.
The Kuregerera in Advance hit maker said, “I am so excited to receive this gong for best contemporary gospel album award after working so hard in ministering the word of God through music. When we sing, the priority is to minister the word and getting recognition is a bonus.
“It is great winning awards but winning souls is greater. This is not a solo effort and I would like to thank my fans, family and the Worship Addicts for a job well done.
“At times I compose the songs and at times I just receive them. I really enjoy praising the Lord through music.”
