Gospel singers must monitise their talents: Mathe

SOUTH AFRICA-BASED Zimbabwean gospel singer Hope Farirai Mathe (pictured) says some artistes were failing to enjoy the fruits of their sweat and lagging behind in the world of showbiz because of the assumption that gospel music should not be monetised.

Speaking to NewsDay Life & Style, the rising singer said some gospel musicians were experiencing difficulties in launching their careers because of financial constraints.

“As much as it is about preaching the word of God, gospel music is a talent being shared with a monetary value. If one requires the presence of a gospel artiste at a function, appearance fees must be paid,” she said.

“There are production costs that go into these projects, serious investments are made for marketing. Gospel songs are also copyrighted just like any other intellectual property, the same applies with royalties collected.”

Mathe, who signalled her arrival on the showbiz scene last year with the launch of her debut album Hope of Glory, said the Holy Spirit had had a huge influence on her music and how it reached the masses.

“What excites me the most are the multiple ways of expressing who God is through music. Gospel music is inspired by the Holy Spirit which guarantees timeless existence. I believe every song God has inspired me to write and sing is for a specific purpose,” she said.

“If you are still in the initial stages of your career, it is hard to penetrate the industry especially if one does not have a good marketing plan, team and producers. It takes more than going to the studio, laying down a track and publishing it like many people assume.”

Mathe said she has embarked on a minitalk show called Hopeful Stories. “This show is all about real life stories shared by people for the purpose of giving hope to the people. It is still in the early stages of production and soon will be available on YouTube and Facebook,” she said. The gospel musician said she was eyeing collaborations with some big artistes both locally and internationally.

Songs on Mathe’s debut album include Will Be Done, Unchangeable God, When He Restores, God Almighty, I Am In Awe Of You Oh God, Munondigonera and Anodzoka.