The Sunday News
Michael Magoronga, Midlands Correspondent
At first glance one might mistake him for Joyous Celebration lead vocalist Mkhululi Bhebhe due to the afro hairstyle he spots.
A jack of all trades type, he is a professional barber and hairstylist and is not only a passionate model but also a professional gospel artiste who is ready to conquer the world. Inspired by the legendary Michael Mahendere, Takesure Zama Ncube and Benjamin Dube the gospel artiste whose powerful vocals are his major asset, is also inspired by his look alike artist Bhebhe.
Spencer Mugoni recently scooped the best Gospel Artist during the Kwekwe Arts Merit Awards (KAMA) night, a localised version of the Nama awards, for his efforts in his 2017 offering entitled Going Up. Mugoni whose 2017 effort is his third, says the title of the album is self-explanatory as his aim was scaling up the musical ladder.
“I have two other albums but unfortunately they did not do well because they were not well marketed. But this latest offering has taken the gospel lovers by storm,” he said.
Mugoni had a passion for music since childhood but only took it seriously later in life after he joined praise and worship team in his church. Having developed an interest and started singing in church in 2003 Mugoni only released his first album entitled Gwatakwata in 2012. Kure-kure was to follow in 2016 but also received a lukewarm response just like the first one.
But Mugoni feels he has struck the right cords on Going up.
“The album is doing well and I think this is my breakthrough. I have been receiving calls from people who want me to perform during their church services and for the first time my shows are being well attended,” he said.
Music runs in the family blood, he says, with elder sister Hope Mugoni-Musabaika being an acclaimed artists in her own right.
“She is a popular artiste who has worked with a lot of renowned gospel artistes and she is also a source of inspiration,” he said.
Above all the sources of inspiration, Mugoni said his pastor Apostle Chris Mahovo leader and founder of Heal the World Ministries was rated among the best as he launched a platform for him to shine.
“I would not be recognised by now, he gave me his instruments to practice and use for concerts, what more would I ask for. I thank him very much for that,” he said.
Mugoni says his biggest dream is to have a collaboration with Zama Ncube or Mahendere.
“I wish one day to record a track with Zama Ncube and Mahendere, two of my best singers in and idols in the country. They do not know me yet but I know if my music gets to be played on air, it will turn their heads and one day I will achieve my dream,” he said.
Mugoni said he has no problems balancing his three professions, modelling, hairdressing and music.
“I do my salon duties during the day and go into the studio in the evening, so it is not a challenge to me. I am balancing well,” Mugoni said.
