Zimbabwe: Gospel Singer Mutoko Releases DVD Album

Zimbabwe: Gospel Singer Mutoko Releases DVD Album

The Herald (Harare)

7 February 2008
Posted to the web 7 February 2008

Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Harare

Gospel singer John Mutoko has finally answered calls from his fans by releasing a new DVD album - Mwari Vakatendeka, The DVD is a reflection of Mutoko's willingness to develop not only musically but also spiritually as the music reaches out and touches souls.

Through the videos, Mr Fantastic as his fans lovingly call him, gives a lasting impression that his music is set to become a sensation on the gospel scene. The video of the song Shumba YavaJudah was excellently shot and whoever was responsible for the script deserves a pat on the back. Although the lyrics on this particular song don't come out very well, the video is more than engaging.

The second song, Tsvakai Jesu Murarame, popular with many Zimbabwe Television viewers, has a refreshing video punctuated by good camera work. However, Mr Fantastic still has to learn a thing or two on costumes. Nowadays, most international artistes have realised the power of costumes and it has become apparent that whenever they shoot videos they have to have suitable costumes.

Imagine, how would you feel to see a banker dressed in an all white dust coast or overall?

Frankly speaking, something would be amiss there. But on this video if you don't enjoy the shots you would love to sing along as the song explores how families are ripped apart following ill advice from parents who are supposed to be exemplary. The bottom line in the song is that parents should teach their children the Christian way of life in order to eschew the devil's machinations. Mr Fantastic sings over a mellow hook that is well complemented by a heavy drum bass. He also sings strongly against people who use juju (traditional portions) on their relatives so that they do not get married. On the video of the song, Pasi Idandaro, Mr Fantastic reminds everyone - whether rich or poor - that they will die one day. The video really captures the mood of the sad reality of death.

Other videos that are worth watching include Musandityire where he talks about his personal life, Mweya Wangu Chizorora dedicated to all who have departed highlighting how many die before they have achieved everything they would have set out to do, and Hama Yako Ndiyani.