Charles and Olivia Charamba Celebrate 30 Years of Gospel Music Legacy Through Powerful New Albums

Multi-award-winning gospel power couple Charles and Olivia Charamba are commemorating three decades of inspirational music and ministry with a deeply reflective and uplifting new project. Their latest milestone, marked by the release of two spiritually themed albums Farai Nevanofara and Chemai Nevanochema, has reignited their connection with fans both old and new.

The Charambas’ journey into Zimbabwe’s gospel music scene began with the release of seven early singles that carried messages of hope and faith. But it was their 1997 debut album Tinashe Akatendeka that catapulted them into the limelight. With its powerful message on God’s faithfulness, the album became a foundation stone in what would become one of the most remarkable careers in Zimbabwean gospel music.

Today, with 30 years in the industry, the Charambas are not only reflecting on their legacy but continuing to shape it. Their latest work includes 30 carefully selected tracks compiled into three albums. These projects are rooted in the biblical verse Romans 12:15 — “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep” — which guides their current musical and spiritual direction.

The first album, Farai Nevanofara, meaning “Rejoice with those who are rejoicing”, includes tracks like Dzasvika Nyasha, Farai Mufarisise, Dai Musina Kuuya, Tipembere, and Mufaro Wangu Kupenga. These songs celebrate joy, gratitude, and the blessings of life. In contrast, Chemai neVanochema — “Weep with those who are weeping” — carries a more reflective tone with songs such as Kumba KwaBaba Vangu, In My Father’s House, Vanofira Munashe, and Tariro Haitirase, which offer solace, comfort, and spiritual hope during times of loss and mourning.

Speaking in a telephone interview, Charles Charamba shared that their music over the years has been shaped by real-life experiences of both joy and sorrow. “We still have hope and strength in Christ, as the Bible tells us. We cannot afford to ignore the mightiness of God in either difficult times or happier times,” he said. He emphasised that the heart of their music is about walking alongside others — whether in celebration or grief — echoing the Christian call for empathy and compassion.

Since their debut, the Charambas have served in the Apostolic Faith Mission Church and now lead their own congregation, Rooted in Christ Ministries, which meets weekly at the Zimbabwe College of Music. Their spiritual leadership has gone hand in hand with their musical calling, making their ministry both audible and actionable.

Over the years, the Charambas have released 13 acclaimed albums that have shaped the soundscape of Zimbabwean gospel. These include Johane 3:16 (1998), Vhuserere (2000), Exodus (2001), Sunday Service (2002), Verses and Chapters (2004), New Testament in Song (2007), Pashoko Pangoma (2010), WeNazareta (2014), and Abba Father (2017). Each album has reflected a unique moment in their spiritual and artistic journey, showing growth in both musical depth and theological insight.

The Charambas are known for their unique fusion of musical styles including jiti, jazz, sungura, and traditional hymns. Their collaborations with celebrated instrumentalists and vocalists have kept their sound fresh, relevant, and deeply rooted in Zimbabwean cultural identity.

With their upcoming third album in the trilogy already on the horizon, Charles and Olivia Charamba continue to prove why they remain icons in the local gospel scene. Their message remains clear — in seasons of laughter or lament, their music walks with the people.