Gospel superstar Obert Mazivisa to perform at Zim Achievers next month

The Zimbabwe Achievers Awards (ZAA) have rolled out another big name performer, announcing Gospel sensation Obert Mazivisa as one of the performing acts for the big night on 7th May in London.

Mazivisa now joins the all-star roster for the event that already boasts a line-up that includes Afro-pop star Kazz, Gemma Griffiths and rising comedian Ofishal-Xavier.

The event this year is sponsored by Eco-cash diaspora, Chitoro and Steward bank, and will be held at the prestigious Royal Garden hotel in the popular district of Kensington, London.

The hotel is known for it's panoramic views of Kensington Gardens,Hyde park and London's skyline. Kensington Palace, is also located a stone's throw away from the hotel.

Mazivisa who has also been nominated for the coveted International Gospel Artist Award has been active in the gospel industry in UK for over 10 years.

"We are delighted to announce that Obert Mazivisa will this year be part of the all-star line-up for the 6th Edition," ZAA Event Coordinator Colline Watts said.

"Mazivisa is regarded as one of the finest main stream Gospel Artists in the UK and we have discussed the idea of having him perform at the awards for years - now we have finally sealed the deal," Watts added.

Born and raised in Gokwe, Zimbabwe, Obert started singing at a very young age and in his early teens realised that music was his passion and something that he wanted to pursue.

Obert founded Record label, Trumpet Echoes Music (TEM) in 1997. Since its inauguration, TEM has promoted up-and-coming talent.

 "I am very passionate about promoting Zimbabwean talent. We have so many gifted young people in our community and it is important that we give them a platform to shine and TEM is that platform," Mazivisa said.

In 2002 Mazivisa released his debut Album Munhu Chii, which marked the beginning of his journey as a gospel artist. The album sold over 800 copies and received relatively positive reviews.

Mazivisa went on to produce his second album in 2010 called Come Along. This album was recorded live in London, in front of a packed studio audience and became a turning point in his career. The album was widely received and distributed in Zimbabwe and the UK. It has sold over 2500 copies to date. The award winning musician has performed at a wide range of events with his backing team, The Trumpet Echoes and has shared the stage with some of the UK's hottest gospel artists, including award-winners Faith Child, Guvna B, Diana Hamilton, Isaiah-Raymond & Friends, A Star, Aaron T Aaron, and Shad Stone. He has also been a part of several successful music projects, working alongside gospel powerhouse ZimPraise and Free to Worship, where he also served as director.

Some of his internationally acclaimed songs include Baba We Are Waiting and his latest single, I Fly Higher which has received rave reviews.

"Many of my songs are inspired by the gospel and are a culmination of reflections, messages and teachings about the reality of the gospel."

"They also drive an essential message of love, the love of God to man; and the love of God in man," said Mazivisa.

Last year Obert signed a mega deal with music producer Roy Francis of the The Gospel Agency. The Gospel Agency is part of Roy Francis Productions, one of the leading Christian Production Companies in the UK. Francis is a well-known figure within the British gospel music and church community and an award winning former, 'BBC 'Songs of Praise' producer. Roy Francis Productions represents high profile UK gospel artists including International stars such as Michelle Williams, Donnie McClurkin, Chevelle Franklyn and Muyiwa.

"I am truly honoured to be part of a prestigious label such as this. I am looking forward to the journey ahead and cannot wait to share all the amazing work in the pipeline," Mazivisa said.

This year the ZAA celebrates its sixth anniversary with yet another sophisticated gala dinner. The awards ceremony has established itself as the leading platform for recognising the hard work and achievements of Zimbabweans living in the UK, in areas that include the arts, business, community initiatives and sport.

The ticket deadline has been extended to the 2nd of May to afford all those wanting to attend the opportunity to purchase their tickets.

Tickets are being sold for £89.95 and can be bought directly from zimachievers.com.

Voting for this year's awards is on-going and profiles of the nominees are featured on zimachievers.com and detail the remarkable achievements of the shortlisted candidates. Voting will end next Friday, 29th April.