The godfather of Tshivenda gospel music, Bishop (Dr) Roxley Masevhe, has just released his latest album, entitled Mesiya.
The album contains nine songs, which are Ramakole, Zwithu zwi ntha, O ita zero, Mesiya, Murena ndi ya vharenda, Nne ndi funa Jesu, Kha ri funane, and Ndi tshifhinga tsha vhufhelo.
“This is a package of good, inspirational music that will move you closer to God,” said Masevhe. “It had taken me a very long time to write, compose and arrange the songs and I am confident that as much as I enjoyed this music even those who would buy the CD and listen to the songs would enjoy it.”
Mesaya is Masevhe's 42nd album in his 43-year musical journey so far. His first album was entitled Vhudzisani makhulu and it was recorded at the then Radio Venda. His real professional recording was realised in 1984 when he released chart-busting album entitled Liada Duvha (the day is coming).
In 1985, he had recorded another smash hit, entitled Fhungo la vhutali na vhutshilo (the word of wisdom and life), and together with his earlier album, this culminated in major sales in excess of more than 400 000 copies.
“I became a household name in Limpopo Province in such a way that I had become the most sought-after public performance artist at music festivals, weddings, conferences and parties,” he remembered. “Even today people still enjoy my music.”
Through the decades, Masevhe has unearthed talented artists such as Gabriel Tshisikule, Emmanual Mamphogoro, Rejoice Mukumela, Dan Netshakhuma, Patric Matsila, Fhulu Dangale, Eric Liphadzi, Hilda Ratombo, and Junior M.
“I believe that if you have real talent, you need to share it with others. It's like a candle - you can do more by using it to light more candles,” he said. “Therefore, my latest album, Mesiya, stands as an extension of my shining legacy as a musician who loves and respects his art.”
Roxley Masevhe is available on Facebook and those interested in his music can reach him on 072 985 2017.