Matthew Ngosa: A Devotional Celebration of the Popular Gospel Artist from Zambia
The recent memorial concert for the late gospel singer Matthew Ngosa featured performances by several of Zambia’s most esteemed musicians, who displayed a moving blend of sorrow and joy. The Praise Christian Centre in Lusaka played host to the ceremony the day before he was laid to rest. At the age of 46, Ngosa departed this world, leaving behind a body of music that touched the hearts of Zambians everywhere, from churchgoers to clubgoers.
A Musical Journey
Matthew Ngosa’s heartfelt gospel anthems won over many listeners throughout his twenty-plus-year music career. His songs were popular enough to make it into nightclubs, proving his appeal was not limited to religious settings. In honor of his life and music, the tribute performance drew an enormous crowd that included admirers, relatives, acquaintances, and even some government officials. Boyd, also known as BJ, his older brother, led the mourners in a heartfelt farewell.
While still in high school, Ngosa got his start in the music industry by joining BJ and their younger brother Hezron for a cappella performance. The brothers persisted doggedly in their pursuit of music despite the obstacles presented by piracy in Zambia, which frequently resulted in performers being denied adequate recompense. The Ezma Brothers, a partnership between Matthew and Hezron, eventually became a subset of The Tribe Called Christians. At Northmead Assemblies of God Church, he was able to refine his abilities with The Christ Ambassador Choir, which allowed his talent to blossom even further.
Get to the Top
“Umutima Wandi” (My Heart), Matthew Ngosa’s 2004 debut album, shot to the top of the charts upon its release. As the album continued to do well, it was followed by gospel singles that became club and church anthems, such as “Ukulolela” (Waiting) and “Ndakunkula” (Rolling to God in Praise). Ngosa had a decent livelihood as a musician up until January when he was diagnosed with liver cancer. This was despite the fact that he never achieved tremendous fortune.
Matthew Ngosa became famous in Zambia after the release of his album Umutima Wandi
An Enduring Influence Never Forgotten
After releasing “Umutima Wandi,” Matthew Ngosa’s star began to rise in Zambia. He was supposed to go back to India for a checkup, but he died two days before his flight. While speaking with the BBC, Matthew’s brother Hezron reflected on his brother’s humor, faith, and charity while remembering his brother’s courage through illness. Gospel artist Kings Mumbi agreed, saying that Ngosa was like a brother to him and had a huge influence on his career.
Since Ngosa saw his singing as a way to promote God’s word, he was prepared to perform at churches for free, demonstrating his dedication to his vocation. His generous nature won over many in the Christian community of Zambia.
Business and Piracy
Piracy has a major influence on the revenues of musicians in Zambia’s thriving music business. However, many Zambian Christians would rather support gospel music by buying original records from artists. The widespread assumption that purchasing pirated gospel music is the same as committing theft only serves to increase the demand for authentic versions.
Remembrance Day
Zambia is a country with a high church attendance rate, thus, the news of Matthew Ngosa’s death hit close to home. Both President Hakainde Hichilema and former President Edgar Lungu paid their respects at the funeral home. Both of Ngosa’s daughters live on from his relationship with Tasila Ngombe. He was a prominent member of Lungu’s Patriotic Front party.
In an interview, BJ credited their mother, Samaria Maswela, with helping them launch their music careers. She was a church singer who, when the brothers were little, began attending Sunday school at the United Church of Zambia (UCZ). An emotional moment occurred during the memorial concert when Samaria, BJ, and other members of the family sang “Umutima Wandi,” a praise hymn in Bemba that expresses gratitude to God for the blessings in life.
A Memorable Influence
Many people are grieving the loss of Matthew Ngosa. His steadfast faith, generosity, and impact on gospel music in Zambia will live on in perpetuity. Nevers Mumba, a televangelist and former vice president, made the touching observation that Ngosa’s influence will live on in the lives of those he touched, as he will be greeted in paradise with the same strong voice that moved people on Earth.
