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Lovemore Meya Arts Correspondent—
Gospel musician Charles Chipanga of the Charlenam Stable on Friday last week launched his second 10-track album titled “Goodness” in Harare in style with a live streaming on Star FM. The launch, which was attended by the most influential people in the showbiz left a lasting impressions. Something striking about the set up was an exhibition of the couple’s photographs taken at places they performed complimented by news articles chronicling their musical journey.

Chipanga and his wife Namatayi showed why they are a force to reckon with in the gospel circles with an electric performance. Starting at exactly 6:30pm, Namatayi took to the stage dressed in an all black attire and performed three of her songs including “Handikendenge,” “Usadaro”, and “Handidzoke” which proved to be the crowd’s favourite.

She showcased her vast talents in playing different instruments including shackles and traditional drums. Gospel lovers danced the night out until 7pm when Star FM presenter, R-Kay (Richard Kohola) broadcasted the launch live on radio, making the event a unique one. In an interview with R-Kay, Chipanga talked about the album.

“In this project, I have used a lot of traditional instruments and there is a lot from the heart than the other two. I played music that I loved, instead of what people love,” he said. “In our country or the world today we are going through a lot especially economic hardships. And at times we forget to remember that God is there and the good things around us. When you wake up in the morning, it is something good, let us not look at the ills that are there, but praise God for everything we have.”

Affirmative Action Group president, Chamu Chiwanza who was guest speaker at the event said he was honoured to be part of the launch. “I am very excited to be here at Chipanga’s album launch and some people may think that we do not want the presence of God in our lives or business. We like Him to guide us and be our light and Charles a good friend of mine, I am going to mentor him in business as well.

“Your station is Star FM, just like your name ‘Star’ Chipanga my brother, your star is shining, do not take it for granted, humble yourself before the Lord for it to shine brighter and do not be big headed,” he advised.

Four of his CDs were auctioned for $300 and the least fetched $105. After the interview, Chipanga took to the stage and played all the songs on his album, throwing jokes during his performance much to the delight of the appreciating crowd.

However, the track “Mututu” stole the lime light with the packed auditorium calling for an encore. Throughout the launch, music lovers danced and poured their hearts out for the great combination, Charles and his wife, Namatayi are. After the launch, Charles and Namatayi expressed their gratitude to all those who made the event a success and said it was a dream come true.