The saying "perseverance is the mother of all success" has once again proven to be true. This comes after gospel music sensation Hakundwi Munyai finally attained his long-awaited breakthrough, releasing his debut gospel hit single, Onoula Mudzimu wa Kale, loosely translated as The same God who was there in the beginning [is still here].
The single, recorded live in Polokwane in November last year, has taken the gospel fraternity by storm, bringing a fresh new breeze to the industry.
Since its release on 10 March, the song has enjoyed high rotation on both community and commercial radio stations. It was also hailed as the singer's best birthday gift, having been released just two days after his 24th birthday.
The musician, who hails from Hamashamba Tshivhuyuni, is a devoted member of the Revealing Christ Champions Church in Elim Mpheni, under Apostle Tshimangadzo George Mulima. He credits his father, Joseph Munyai, for first recognising his talent.
"My father, who is also a gospel musician with two albums, motivated me to love singing. He literally forced me to start singing in 2001 when he compelled me to ditch the drums for the lead microphone. My road to stardom wasn't smooth sailing, though. In 2020, I joined the Let My Voice Be Heard online singing competition, which was organised by gospel musician Gundo Gee, but my journey ended in the Top 5," he said.
Unfazed by the setback, Hakundwi entered another competition later that year — I Can Sing Gospel, led by renowned multi-award-winning gospel artist Newie Nthabalala. Unfortunately, he only made it to the Top 15.
After taking a break, he returned in 2022 to enter Be Our Opening Act, a competition organised by Mukurob Music. This time, he emerged victorious, and two years later he found himself on stage recording his first single with a live band.
"It was a dream come true for me. The initial prize was to be the opening act at one of Mukurob Music's shows, but God had other plans. I was overwhelmed with emotion when I was informed that I would be recording with them. I seized the opportunity with both hands, as I had always wanted the nation to hear what God has deposited in my spirit through my voice," said a grateful Hakundwi.
Growing up idolising gospel powerhouse Rofhiwa Manyaga, Hakundwi said he drew inspiration from those who had made the journey — but always strives to be himself when on stage.
"I appreciate the love and support I've received since the release of the song. This is just the beginning of my music journey, and I believe God will take me to greater heights," he said.