Zimpapers Logo

Jonathan Mbiriyamveka Entertainment Reporter
Gospel newbie Alpha Nyaradzai Nhambure, launched her debut album simply titled “The Alpha” over the weekend at ZimCafe Restaurant amid glitz and glamour.
The setting and the stage work was pretty awesome for the rookie who was introducing herself on the gospel scene.“I am delighted to perform here today. It has been a long journey with up and downs but by the grace of the Lord I overcame everything. I bless this day because it is a time to rejoice for this is my first album and I hope you will be blessed,” she said to wild applause.

The 32-year-old singer, who is based in South Africa, sampled songs from the 10-track album including the first single “Everyday”, “God Almighty” and a cover version of the popular “Jesu Makanaka”.

Sung in English, Shona, isiNdebele and Zulu, the album is wholly praise and worship with an afro-jazz feel.

For someone who grew up listening to the music of Shingisai Suluma and lately the Charambas, her sound is groovy and mellow. And the music is enjoyable.

The Gutu-bred musician said she titled the album “The Alpha” to announce her entry into the music sector as a vessel to spread the word of God through music.

“This is my first album and hopefully it marks the beginning of my journey as a gospel artiste,” she said.

Alpha said the album would be accompanied by a DVD which she has already started working on. The “Everyday” video was shot in South Africa while “God Almighty” was recorded locally.

The song “Igama Lenkosi” is a Zulu hymn that was translated into Shona, while track two “Everyday” talks about one’s everyday life led by the Almighty.

Lucky fans walked away with free CDs.

About how she started music, Alpha, who is a civil engineer by profession, admits it was almost by coincidence that she found herself behind the microphone.

The mother of two has also planned to work with a Zimbabwean producer as well as stage live performances around the country in due  course.