Gospel Groove

Keen to take the gospel music to every corner of the country, Groove Awards tour rocked Meru and Thika last weekend, writes GEOFFREY KORIO

The Groove Tour welcomed everyone from all walks of life; from children, parents, couples to the youth in giving thanks to the most high. Regardless of the reasons for attending the events, people were guaranteed of blessings in the "Celebrating Gospel Talent in Style!" themed Groove Awards tour that started in the first week of April in Kisumu. This weekend the Groove Tour brought the Gospel to Meru and Thika at the Kinoru Stadium and Thika Municipal Stadium respectively.

With Safaricom, as the title sponsor and KTN as the media partner, there was nothing left to chance for the tour. The venues were more than adequately prepared; security detail ensured safety for the fans and emergency health personnel were ever present to help the fans. In addition, people got what they were promised: the gigantic screens and the heavy sound systems.

Mesmerising Meru

Esther Wahome

The Meru event was quite unique given the fact that the Meru audience had been described in the past as difficult to impress. At Kinoru stadium the audience was receptive and enjoyed the performances from the artistes who gave their all. Local (Meru) gospel artistes such as the Ameru Crew and Mama Faith were also given the chance to showcase their talents. Despite dark clouds hovering above the stadium, the show continued to the delight of the fans.

The Groove Tour at Thika was nothing short of electrifying and powerful. The sunny weather made it possible for families to enjoy their Sunday afternoon. The show started well on time with the likes of Maximum Impact and other new artistes performing. After the show, it was evident enough that fans wanted to interact with the artistes and have a photo session with them. But that didn’t end there for Rose Muhando who, after giving a powerful and scintillating performance, prayed with and blessed some of her avid fans.

Artistes’ take

Behind the scenes the artistes prepared themselves and gave their fans very energetic performances. Apart from being exhausted after their performances and having a busy schedule with the Groove Tour, the artistes spared their time to describe their experience:

Lydiah Kaimuri: "The Groove Tour has psyched me up to do more songs. I also got the opportunity to interact with my fellow gospel artistes and fans."

A Star: "It’s fun, powerful and impactful experience. I appreciated the chance to access other parts of the country and interact with the fans. "

MC Abel: "I’m loving the crowd responding to gospel tunes and singing along. And I enjoy hanging out with the artists because they are spiritual and fun guys."

Kris Eh Baba: "Loving everything about it. The Groove Tour has been awesome and successful."

DJ Sadic:"Groove Tour has played a big part in shaping my career as a DJ. The fact that it brings together gospel artistes from all over the country for one cause, which is to spread God’s love, is just amazing. Most importantly Groove Tour and Groove Awards recognises and appreciates local gospel talent. It unites the industry."

Jojo: "The Tour is a blessing to the people and all of us (artistes)."

MOG: "As always the Groove Tour rocked. We have really enjoyed being part of this year’s Groove Tour from Kisumu, Meru and Thika and the way guys have responded we give thanks to God. In addition to this, it is a platform that many would love to have, so we are lucky to meet with our fans. God bless Groove Tour."

BMF: "We love the Groove Tour experience. Since it exposes artists to areas that our music might have reached or not. It takes us to the people and we’re honoured to be part of it."

DK of Furi Furi fame: "Kenyan gospel music is taking a different level in the music industry. Thank God. New talent is really appreciated big time."