Kutenda: A music star is born
HE IS the f uture. He is here. He is Kutenda Gabriel, an eightyear- old North Park Primary School pupil who on Thursday launched his debut album, “Merciful God”.
The album has seven tracks and is produced by t he acclaimed Munya Vialy who has churned out big names in t he industry.
Scant doubt Kutenda is headed for big t hings: he is a member of t he United Methodist Church praise and worship team and a member of ZimPraise kids.
And on Thursday night, he drew an admirable crowd t hat also i ncluded ZimPraise CEO Joseph Madziyire, Southerton UMC choir, family and a young fan base that sought to draw inspiration from t he young musician.
In a show that was hosted by radio personality R Kay “The Radio Doctor”, Kutenda left t he crowds wowed by his energy and talent.
Actually, t he crowd was “rocked” which is what he had promised his fans. And boy, he has t he moves! On t he night, several guests showered praises on t he young musician, who did not look nonplussed t he occasion as he sat in a majestic white chair or through the motions or jumped onto t he stage.
Deputy head of his School, a Mrs Tsanga said Kutenda was doing well at school i n various disciplines.
Vialy was happy about this fresh gem from his stable.
“I worked very well with Kutenda,” said Vialy.
“He is such a talented guy. Growing up we were not exposed and our talents were suppressed. I only started keyboards at church. Thank God he gave wisdom to t he parents to accept t he talent t hat Kutenda has.
“We must support children in their talents not just in the academic f ield. I promise you t his album is good and you will enjoy.”
Kutenda’s family — including his mother Eve Maforo, were elated.
Rev Taurai Emmanuel Maforo, an uncle, said t he rare talent i n Kutenda, which he attributed to God, had even inspired his own children to sing.
Guest of Honour, businessman a nd empowerment lobbyist Mr Langton Mabhanga, who bought a copy for R1 000, said Kutenda was “a miracle”.
“Jesus started his ministry at t he age of 12 yet Kutenda has started at eight. Christ is still performing miracles and Kutenda is one of t hose miracles,” said Mr Mabhanga, who is t he President of t he National Business Council of Zimbabwe.
“If such talent show at eight what will come of it in years to come? This is t he star t hat we may have been waiting for!”
Urging parents to be responsible and spend t i me with t heir kids, he said t alent i dentif i c at i on a nd nurturing was crucial.
“His mother identified t he talent at four. The challenge to us as parents is, how much do we spend time with children and how well do we interact with our children to identify and develop talent in our children?”