Gospel musician Chari gets ZCC church blessing to switch to secular music
Musician Obert Chari says he secured the blessing of his church leadership to transition from gospel to secular music, a move he credits with expanding his audience, increasing bookings, and fostering artistic growth.
The leader of Hakireni Stars remains a devoted member of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC).
He stated that the backing of church elders and fellow congregants provided him with the confidence to explore a broader musical style without compromising his Christian values.
Chari, who now performs at various venues including entertainment hubs, State functions, and religious gatherings, maintains that his strategic re-branding has successfully widened his reach while allowing him to deliver socially conscious messages.
“I can safely say that I have been re-branding for the past three years, and we are beginning to see some positive results from that move,” Chari said on the sidelines of the recent Anti-Sanctions Music Gala held at Chipadze Stadium in Bindura.
“It is true that I started off singing gospel music, but those who recognised my talent always encouraged me to go the extra mile. There are senior people in the church who advised me to re-brand after realising that I was versatile. I had to follow my heart, which has helped me a lot.”
The “Mebho” hitmaker noted that the transition has substantially boosted both his fan base and his professional earning potential.
“In terms of my following and the appeal of my music, I think it has doubled. In terms of payment, there is a huge difference because people now understand that music is my profession,” he added. “I am also paid handsomely whenever I perform at church events because they understand that it is a business.”
Chari expressed gratitude to the ZCC for providing the structural foundation and spiritual support necessary for his career advancement, emphasising that the church understands his career is a professional enterprise.
He joins a notable group of Zimbabwean artistes who maintain active Christian faiths while producing secular music centred on themes of family responsibility, love, hope, and faith. *_-Herald_*
