Utilise your talents— Ethel Kamwendo Banda
Veteran gospel singer, Ethel Kamwendo Banda, on Sunday took time out to call on youths in the country to utilise their talents to minister the word of God.
The singer, famed for the song ‘Ndiumboni’, said youths need to refrain from engaging in unnecessary behaviours but should rather utilise their God-given gifts.
She made these remarks at Blantyre Cultural Centre (BCC) when a youthful group—Abwenzi from Limbe CCAP—launched their latest album Kumwamba Tikanjoya.
Kamwendo Banda, who used to be a secular artist before she went gospel after turning born-again, said youths should not be staying idle.
“Find something to do, God gave us different talents so let us utilise them. There is a lot happening now and this has seen many youths engaging in unnecessary behaviours. I should commend this group, Abwenzi, for utilising their talent to sing for the Lord,” she said.
The songstress closed the chapter during the launch, which also saw performances from Eliza Mponya, Khama Khwiliro, Estiner Katengeza and Mighty POV.
“I have followed this group and I am happy they have finally launched a new album. It’s been a good afternoon. What I like about them is that they are unique in their songs, they are united and they are smart and you can see that from their dressing this afternoon,” Kamwendo Banda said.
The songstress said she was happy to be part of the launch and that her presence was a way of encouraging them to continue working hard.
Formed in 2009, Abwenzi is made up of Vitumbiko Ngulube, Chinsinsi Zigowa and Stanley Chiwaya.
“We thank God for a good launch, we didn’t anticipate such support and, next, we will be working on a DVD followed by other projects,” the trio said.
While many groups have launched albums but failed to remain relevant and vibrant, the trio said the launch was the beginning of more performances and that for them this was a ministry to spread the word of God.
The performances during the afternoon lived up to the billing, although some offered the same meal with no wow factor.
Some performances also exposed lack of rehearsals and creativity.
Abwenzi’s Kumwamba Tikanjoya has 10 tracks. It was recorded by veteran producer and musician Joseph Tembo and OBK Chitheka.
Some of the songs in the album include ‘Kukoma’, ‘Muzamva’, ‘Musaope’, ‘Ndizapita Ndekha’ ‘Muchite Nane’, ‘Yalula Mphasa’ and ‘Bwelera Kwa Yesu’.
“We have tried to appeal to everyone and this is why we have R&B songs, traditional and house,” Zigowa said.
He said the album carries the message of hope and salvation.
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