The Sunday News
Mgcini Madlela, Online Reporter
The fourth edition of the Gwanda International Gospel Music Festival got off to an explosive start on Friday night with South African gospel star Dr Tumi putting up a five-star performance at Phelandaba Stadium.
The first day showcased the best that the Gwanda Gospel Festival has to offer, proving perhaps that in its fourth year the festival, the brainchild of Big Time Strategic Group’s CEO Justice Maphosa, has come of age.
Dr Tumi brought down the curtain on the night’s performances with a showing that gave further evidence of why he is one of South Africa’s highly rated gospel talents.
Although Dr Tumi’s voice was the highlight of a glorious night in the mining town, the fireworks display at the end of his set once again lit up the Gwanda sky and got more cheer than perhaps any artiste had managed to command during the night.
Before Dr Tumi’s rousing performance, Bulawayo’s Indosakusa had already proved that imbube blends seamlessly with gospel, as they gave an engaging performance that once again proved their growing status as one of the genre’s leading lights.
Vocal Ex also proved their prowess on the night, warming up the stage before Dr Tumi came on with another engaging performance that won the hearts of the throngs at Phelandaba Stadium.
In between, the fest’s masters of ceremonies made sure that the event was a gospel gig, with the scripture quoted at various times during intervals between performances.
Away from the stage, the first day of the fest once again proved that the Gwanda Gospel Festival is now one of the best run music showcases in the country, with every single aspect of the fest handled with expert care.
More performances from top South African and local acts were held last night.
