GOD WILL COMFORT US: MLALAZI
MULTI-LINGUAL praise and worship star Everton Mlalazi might be a chart-topper on the airwaves owing to his creative edge but he remains as humble as ever.
With the world grappling from the Covid-19 pandemic, poverty, illness among other issues, Mlalazi reckons its high time gospel musicians and preachers come on board and heal bleeding hearts.
Better known for his spiritually uplifting singles like Ekhaya, Uyingcwele, Jesus is the Answer, My Father’s House featuring South African diva Xolly Mncwango, Mlalazi believes he is using his talented to redeem lost souls.
H-Metro Assistant News Editor (Entertainment) TRUST KHOSA (TK) had a chat with the gospel singer EM) who opened up on his career, future plans and gospel music in general. Read on…
TK: Tell me your brief profile brother?
EM: Well, I would say my name is Everton Mlalazi. I am married to Gamuchirai Mlalazi and we are blessed with two girl children Natasha and Keisha.
I was born in Harare and in my early years I stayed in Glen Norah A and learnt at Kundayi Primary School.
Later on, I did my high school at Nyazura Adventist High School before attending the University of Zimbabwe for my first degree.
I grew up in an Adventist family and my dad is very musical.
TK: What’s your vision as a gospel musician who is topping the charts both locally and regionally?
EM: Gospel music is supposed to give hope whilst also reminding people of the second coming of Christ to take us home to a place (Ekhaya) where there will be no dying, no Covid19, no pain, no illness but eternal bliss.
I envision music that ministers to the soul. While I will always aim to professionally arrange and produce my music, my main aim is to preach the word of God through music.
TK: Explain what inspired you to venture into gospel music?
EM: I was inspired by my love for spreading the word of God through music. Music heals and gives hope.
I followed the Heritage Singers, Shower Power, Joyous Celebration, Benjamin Dube, Marvin Sapp, Bebe Winans since I was young and they all are powerful models of gospel music ministry.
TK: Who is your role model or models in music and ministry?
EM: The source of my inspiration is God himself through the holy word the Bible.
God speaks to us through the Bible (experiences of others), and I share my spiritual experiences with others through my music.
TK: Tell us about your discography (i.e. number of albums/ singles) that you have released?
EM: To date, I have released four singles which are all going to be part of my upcoming album.
The latest song is My Father’s House a collaboration with
Xolly Mncwango from South Africa.
TK: How do you handle fame being a chart-topper at most local radio stations, especially Star FM?
EM: Being a chart topper doesn’t make you a more special artiste. It’s the unmerited favour of the Lord and it’s maybe just your time and always remain humble
TK: Your happiest moment (s) in music that you would like to share?
EM: I have been humbled by the support for my music especially how songs like UyingcweleandEkhaya have been received.
TK: What role are you playing in creating awareness against the Covid-19 pandemic?
EM: I wish to say to all my fellow Zimbabweans that we must not lose hope because God is surely watching.
If we humble ourselves and seek for Him, the Lord will heal our land from Covid-19 and He will wipe all those tears away and comfort those that have lost their loved ones. He will provide for us things like shelter and food even during these times. He is a faithful God.
TK: Any people you would like to give credit for your success?
EM: I want to thank my wife Gamuchirai who is also my manager for organising my music and being there with me all the way.
TK: Tell us briefly about your collabo with Xolly?
EM: I feel highly favoured to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Sis Xolly.
I have been following her through her time at Joyous Celebration and all the work she has done with Benjamin Dube and I felt that the arrangement behind My Father’s House would suit her.
I got in touch with her and she was willing and we set the ball rolling. I recorded from here and she did from SA and we then met when the did the video which will be released in a few days’ time.
TK: Your plans for the first quarter?
EM: We intend to release our debut album this April. Our fans should expect a spirit filled compilation.
TK: Thank you for your time brother.
EM: You are welcome.