Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Entertainment Editor
“Nditorei, ndinatsei, ndisukei woooo Mwari yowe, Ishe…”
These stirring lyrics from the timeless hit, “Nditorei”, echo in the hearts of many, having blossomed into an anthem that transcended generations within Zimbabwe’s vibrant gospel scene.
Who can forget the melodious voice and the iconic afro hairstyle of the enchanting Shuvai Wutaunashe, the radiant lead singer of The Family Singers?
In the early 1980s, The Family Singers emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration, pioneering the gospel music movement in Zimbabwe.
Their album, ‘African Praise’ stands as a monumental testament, often remembered as the first compilation of celebratory praise music in the nation.
Comprising talented individuals like Jonathan and Shuvai Wutaunashe, Simon Muyambo, and several others, the group captured the spirit of a nation seeking both spiritual and cultural expression.
Shuvai, with her captivating presence and heartfelt performances, quickly became a beloved figure, enchanting audiences at every turn.
Fast forward to today, Shuvai has returned to her roots, touching down in Zimbabwe yesterday from Saudi Arabia, where her family has long been engaged in public service and diplomacy.
The anticipation is palpable as she prepares to grace the stage at the inaugural, ‘Gospel Legends Night’, scheduled this weekend at Rainbow Towers, an event that promises to be a dazzling celebration of gospel music featuring luminaries such as Pastor Haisa, Mechanic Manyeruke, The Charambas, Carol Mujokoro, Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave and Pastor Bonnie Deuschle.
In our Down Memory Lane interview, Shuvai gleamed with joy, reflecting on her last performance, a televised National Thanksgiving event at State House, where she sang, “Nditorei” alongside the police band, a moment etched in her memory forever.
“I was overjoyed to sing for our nation’s leaders and also gather with so many from across Zimbabwe,” she recalls.
Residing in Saudi Arabia, Shuvai and her family have thrived as public servants since the 1980s, dedicating their lives to the service of the country.
She beams with pride as she speaks of her children and grandchildren, all of whom have inherited her musical passion.
“We are blessed with a beautiful family,” she shares, with a voice filled with warmth and love.
Last month, Shuvai celebrated a personal triumph, graduating with a Master of Philosophy degree in Culture and Diplomacy from Great Zimbabwe University (GZU).
This achievement underscores her commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and global engagement, a mission that resonates deeply with her.
Besides music, Shuvai is into farming.
“When I am back home, I am a farmer in Masvingo and also run a consultancy, the Harare School of Protocol.”
With a remarkable 43-year journey in music, Shuvai reflects on the divine strength that has fuelled her passion.
“God has been faithful, granting me the inspiration to continue sharing His message through song,” she says.
Her voice carries the weight of experience, a reminder of her long journey that started when many of today’s gospel enthusiasts were not yet born.
Shuvai believes that Zimbabwe’s hard-won independence unleashed a wave of creativity in worship and music, liberating the artistic spirit that had once been constrained.
“We have come so far, and it’s essential to celebrate this progress,” she declared.
As Shuvai prepares to step back into the limelight, her story remains one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her craft.
She is not merely a singer; she is a beacon of hope and faith.
Reflecting on her breakthrough, Shuvai recounts a pivotal moment in 1982 when The Family Singers recorded her original composition, ‘Tarira Nguva’.
“It quickly soared to national prominence, remaining on the charts for nearly a year.”
Shuvai added that behind this success lies a compelling story of resilience.
“My husband, Jonathan, faced skepticism from Teal, the leading recording label at the time.
“Executives believed that religious music was on the verge of extinction, predicting its swift decline.”
“Yet, Jonathan’s unwavering commitment turned the tide; he boldly promised to purchase all unsold records, which ultimately led to ‘Tarira Nguva’ becoming an instant sensation,” explained Shuvai.
“It was included in the early ‘80s compilation of Zimbabwe’s greatest hits, Volume One, which was licenced to international labels like Shanachie Records in Europe.”
The talented legend fondly recalls the thrill of discovering their compilation album in Washington DC, following her family’s diplomatic posting in 1984.
“Seeing our music reach international shores was a proud moment for me.”
However, with an illustrious career spanning over four decades, Shuvai reflects on her vital role in nurturing the gospel music scene.
“Since we began singing, we have supported countless artists, both established and emerging, in growing their ministries and visibility.”
In the early 1990s, The Family Singers founded one of the first independent recording studios, ‘Shelter’, providing a crucial platform for aspiring artists to shine.
“We popularised the genre through video productions and vibrant live performances,” says Shuvai, reminiscing about lively shows at venues like the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) and the College of Music.
To date Shuvai has written numerous songs that have become national treasures, including, ‘Nditorei’ and ‘Rudo Rukuru’.
Her husband, Jonathan, has also significantly contributed with classics like ‘Vana Vanokosha’, which served as a signature tune on ZBC TV.
“While many songs have been recorded, some still await their turn in the studio,” she highlighted, noting challenges of keeping pace with the ever-evolving music landscape.
Commenting on the evolution of gospel music, Shuvai says: “The audience has grown from near extinction in the ‘80s to a vibrant community that now embraces gospel music across various genres.”
She recalled controversies they faced when introducing guitars in church, an act once criticised but now embraced by many.
“Today, gospel music encompasses everything from traditional hymns to pop, jazz, reggae, and hip-hop,” she explains, marvelling at the genre’s evolution.
Shuvai emphasises the richness of contemporary gospel music.
“In earlier times, songs often revolved around Bible stories and hymns.
“Now, artists draw from their personal experiences with Christ, infusing the genre with depth and meaning.”
However, she cautions that some songs may lack substance, as not all songwriters fully appreciate the artistry of thoughtful song-writing.
