The Sunday News
Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
EXPECTATIONS were high, the venue was packed and the sound system was on point when Bulawayo gospel darling Siphethangani Sibanda popularly known as Pastor Barak launched his second album titled Yimi Lo.
The extraordinary album launch which left people dumbfounded at the excellent work of the gospel muso took place at Monte Carlo Centre last week.
Perhaps to prove that he is the most followed gospel sensation, Pastor Barak had former Minister Godern Moyo and Bulawayo mayor Martin Moyo as guests who later joined him on the dance floor.
In a bid to lighten up the mood and turn the event into something special, the gospel household hired Skyz Metro FM DJ Manessi “MaMlevu” Ndlovu to be the master of ceremony.
Pastor Barak, in his grey suit, made a grand entrance and was welcomed by screaming and jumping people as he walked majestically on the red carpet looking ready to deliver.
The album is nothing but a scintillating and well cooked project that will help the talented superstar maintain his status as one of Bulawayo’s top solo gospel artistes.
The album has six powerful songs with messages of loyalty and praising God. The names of the songs are UJesu Wami, Akekho Ongavala, Yimi, Sizowanyathela Amadimoni, Anochengeta, Yehla Moya.
He said the album launch had surpassed his expectations and he is thankful to everyone who attended.
“Honestly I did not expect such a turnout. It’s every artiste’s dream pull out such a massive number to attend your event. To everyone who took their time to come and witness the launch I am forever grateful,” he said.
Pastor Barak also known as “Speta” is a man of God in a prophetic and deliverance ministry called Full Gospel International ministries. His first album Jerusalem which he recorded in 2007 and it was well received.
He said he hoped this album will benefit him to keep on producing more.
“My debut album was not presented at radio stations because the years 2007 and 2008 were tough times in Zimbabwe economically. However, for this album, the songs are already being played on ZBC stations and on Skyz Metro FM,” he said.
He said he has been a music lover since he was young.
“Music and I are two sides of the same coin. I have been involved in music for quite some time now. I have written and sung songs with many groups. Many people know me for the charitable deeds I have done for communities such as helping street kids with food and clothing,” he said.
He thanked the two guests of honour for making it to the launch.
“The presence of Godern Moyo and the mayor, and their dancing moments gave the event the hype that was needed as people started screaming in excitement. I want to thank you for making my dream of this album launch a tremendous success,” he said.
Skyz Metro FM gospel nominee Reward Judah was also present to witness his counterpart wow delegates.
Speaking on the sidelines, Moyo said he had seen the talent of Pastor Barak when he was in Grade Two. The album was bought at special prices ranging from $100 to $130 from its original price of $5.
