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Tafadzwa Zimoyo Senior Arts Reporter

Gospel singer, Everton Mlalazi, scored a first when he surprised his guests with gifts and travel complements to resort areas during his debut album launch at the 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale, Harare, on Saturday.

True to his word and programme script, Mlalazi allowed free entry for his guests, who also walked out of the venue with gift packs.

Somehow a first for such type of an event.

In fact, the title of the album “In His Presence” reflected the magnitude of the dressing and performances for the night — which indeed made the presence of these people felt.

It was a red carpet affair, something which is not much popular with live recordings and album launches.

Mlalazi launched the debut 10-track album, which was also being recorded live, before a cosmopolitan crowd.

Although the number of attendees was restricted by the Covid-19 regulations, the event saw some of the prominent personalities, musicians, radio and television presenters and businesspeople witnessing the launch.

Mlalazi roped in the services of Kevin, The Wedding Planner, who decorated the stage, taking notes from the Grammy award ceremonies and Australian singer, Sia, of the popular song Chandelier style.

Well, Kevin pulled it through with his signature chandeliers on stage and candles.

The VIP area was at par, well decorated. The VIPs had to take pictures first and enjoy the food before they entered the auditorium.

The climax of the glitz and glamour of the event was not only the hosts of the night, but the performances from seasoned musicians.

Lucky fans who won the Mlalazi song competition walked away with some prizes.

Mlalazi’s daughters, Keisha and Natasha, wowed the crowd as they performed on stage, with Natasha on piano.

Indeed, it was a family affair of daddy and his girls. Keish was one of the hostesses together with Ruvheneko Parirenyatwa and Rebecca Muchenje, affectionately known as Becky K.

The trio flawlessly sailed through their presentations.

Radio personalities from all stations represented took turns to share their testimonies on how they have worked with Mlalazi and chronicled his philanthropic works.

They all pointed out that the secret to Mlalazi’s success was his massive investment in his music career.

Some in the auditorium suggested that Mlalazi creates a music label where he records artistes under his name.

They said this because of the quality of production displayed at the launch.

Iconic South African gospel musician Bishop Benjamin Dube, who came with his full band, delivered a scintillating performance, dishing out tune after tune, putting the selected invited crowd into a frenzy mood.

He warmed the stage before performing a duet, “Mwari Hamushanduki”, with Mlalazi,

Bishop Dube said he was honoured to be performing at the launch, describing Mlalazi as a man of integrity.

“God made me a midwife so that something for Everton Mlalazi can come out,” he said. “It is humbling to be a bridge and you allow some people to walk on you to their destiny.

“To whom you can give the baton to run, you just don’t give it to anyone. I am happy to be here and have known Everton for some time. He has a great voice.”

Mlalazi later took to the stage as he performed all the 10 tracks from the latest album.

He performed “Pfugama Unamate” a song he did with Minister Michael Mahendere, putting the whole auditorium to their feet.

Not to be outdone was established saxophonist Joseph Chinouriri, affectionately known as Jose Sax, who kept fans clamouring for more with his antics as he played some popular hymns.