Dorcas Moyo is Set to Bring Together Stars From Different Genres

Award-winning gospel musician Dorcas Moyo is set to bring together some of Zimbabwe’s leading musical acts when she launches her 11th album, Korona Yeimvi, at Manicaland Showgrounds on Saturday, 31 October 2026.

The launch will feature sungura stars Alick Macheso and Leonard Zhakata, contemporary singer Feli Nandi, gospel musician Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave and veteran musician Hosiah Chipanga, among other performers.

Emerging acts Africa Praise, Cloris Machuwaire, Tinashe Murigo and Mai Ellen Anderson are also expected to perform, placing opportunities for developing musicians alongside the unveiling of Moyo’s latest recording project.

The event follows the 2025 launch of her 10th album, Mugeri Tsvatu, and marks another milestone in a recording career that began in 2006. The forthcoming release is a 10-track project recorded at Kunashe Studios, according to previous reports on the album’s production.

Moyo told The Diplomat Media that the new album reflects the experiences that shape people as they navigate life’s challenges.

“Life is a journey, and as you traverse it, you encounter various challenges that shape you into the person you become. The painful moments, the joyous episodes, neglect, acceptance, battering and flattering are all a cocktail of life,” she said.

“These work together in maturing you and, as such, metaphorically speaking, grey hair is a symbol of a journey well travelled and a crown to reflect life’s experiences.”

The title, which translates to “Crown of Grey Hair”, draws on Proverbs 16:31 and uses ageing as a metaphor for wisdom, maturity and spiritual development.

Moyo said the album’s message also challenges Christians to ensure that their spiritual development keeps pace with their years of experience.

Citing Luke 2:52 and 1 Corinthians 13:11, she argued that personal growth should be reflected in how people conduct themselves and relate to others.

“If we are mature enough spiritually, half of society’s problems would be non-existent,” she said.

One of the project’s early releases is Mashoko, featuring Feli Nandi. The collaboration brings together Moyo’s gospel ministry and Nandi’s contemporary musical style, with the song released ahead of the full album to introduce audiences to the new project.

Moyo said her willingness to work with musicians from different genres was driven by her belief that music can reach people beyond established audience boundaries.

“We are all artists before we put genres into the picture. Our gifts are God-given. Hence, if I feel that a certain artist can help in the expansion of the Kingdom of God, then so be it,” she said.

“As Christians, we should not discriminate, because we are not privy to the ways some might give their lives to Christ. If not them, maybe one of their followers might be compelled to listen and possibly be converted or edified.”

The singer also identified Musaenda Kure as one of the album’s most significant tracks, describing it as a deeply personal song about the journey of an artist.

“The song Musaenda Kure is personally ministering to me, and I am positive that it will speak to many as well,” she said.

She recounted an emotional reaction from another prominent musician who listened to the song, saying they were both moved to tears.

“It is a song that summarises the journey and life of an artist,” Moyo added.

Beyond the music, the launch is expected to provide emerging performers with exposure to audiences drawn by the established names on the programme. Moyo has previously said that creating opportunities for upcoming talent is part of her strategy to nurture the next generation of Zimbabwean musicians.

The decision to combine established stars with developing acts gives the event a broader industry dimension, with the stage bringing together performers from gospel, contemporary and sungura backgrounds.

Moyo said lessons from the previous album launch had strengthened her determination to improve both the quality of her music and the experience offered to fans.

“We seek to replicate the 2025 feel as we launch Korona Yeimvi. I am looking forward to a better event,” she said.

“The greatest takeaway is that you should always take your fans seriously, always ensure that you do not dish out half-baked products. We have a strategic goal to always push the bar a bit higher.”

The album launch comes as Zimbabwean musicians increasingly use digital platforms, music videos and live performances to promote their work and reach wider audiences. The early release of Mashoko provides a preview of the project before its official unveiling.

For Moyo, however, the measure of success extends beyond the commercial performance of an album or the size of a concert audience.

She said she wanted future generations to remember the difference her music made in people’s lives.

“Generations after me should not only speak about my music but the impact it had in changing lives,” she said.

Moyo has invited fans to attend the launch at Manicaland Showgrounds on 31 October, promising an event featuring a wide range of Zimbabwean musical talent.

“All I can promise those coming is that you will never regret attending the event,” she said.

With established performers sharing the programme with emerging musicians, Korona Yeimvi is set to combine the celebration of Moyo’s recording career with her message of spiritual maturity, collaboration and lasting impact.