Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
Prominance Sinomusa Khumalo
BULAWAYO – The atmosphere at the Haverst House International Church was electric this past weekend, charged with the spirit of worship during the live recording of the Hlala Nami album.
Amidst the harmonious preparations, Zim GBC News caught up with a founding pillar of South Africa’s gospel powerhouse, Dr. Lindelani Mkhize of the Joyous Celebration Choir. The conversation, however, inevitably turned to the sombre shadow cast over the gospel community: the passing of the beloved Zimbabwean-born vocalist, Eric Moyo.
When asked about the loss, Dr. Mkhize’s typically jovial demeanor softened, revealing the raw grief that still lingers.
“I wouldn’t want to take long on that one because, ngisesebuhlungu namanje (I am still in pain even now),” he confessed.
“Eric left a huge gap. He was fully and wholly part of us, he was part of Joyous Celebration, he was a son to me.”
He continued, his voice thick with emotion,
“I witnessed Eric grow each year. I think he was taken a bit early from us, but only God knows why, we leave everything to Him. Eric is surely missed.”
The Life and Legacy of Eric Moyo
Eric Moyo, a gifted baritone and tenor whose voice carried both power and poignant tenderness, passed away on Saturday, 19 August 2023, in Johannesburg, South Africa. His homegoing sent waves of sorrow through the gospel fraternity in both Zimbabwe and South Africa. He was laid to rest in his homeland, Zimbabwe, on Saturday, 26 August 2023, at West Park Cemetery in Bulawayo, following a moving memorial service that drew hundreds of mourners, including colleagues from Joyous Celebration.
Musical Journey
Moyo’s musical journey began in Zimbabwe, where he honed his craft as a worship leader and session musician. His vocal prowess—marked by its clarity, emotional depth, and effortless range—quickly made him a standout figure in the local gospel scene. He was known for his foundational work with various church choirs and his contributions to the Zimbabwean gospel landscape, where he was respected for his humility and dedication to his ministry through song.
His big break came when he joined the famed Joyous Celebration choir, a platform that propelled him onto the continental stage. He became an integral part of the ensemble from Joyous Celebration 25 (2021) onwards, quickly endearing himself to fans and fellow choir members alike. Dr. Mkhize’s description of him as a “son” echoes the family ethos of the choir, into which Moyo assimilated seamlessly.
Vocal Prowess and Featured Songs
Eric Moyo’s vocal ability was a gift he wielded with grace. He possessed a rare versatility, able to deliver robust, lead vocals and provide rich, supportive harmonies with equal skill. His stage presence was both commanding and gracious, allowing the message of the song to shine through.
At Joyous Celebration, he was notably featured as a lead vocalist on several beloved tracks. He fronted the soul-stirring song “Ngiyakuthanda” from the Joyous 25 album, a performance that showcased his ability to connect deeply with a worshipful lyric. He also led the heartfelt rendition of “You Are Great”, where his vocal control and passion left a lasting impression on audiences.
His voice became a familiar and cherished thread in the tapestry of Joyous Celebration’s recent offerings.
The news of his passing has left a “huge gap,” as Dr. Mkhize poignantly stated. Yet, as the recordings at Haverst House International Church continue, and as albums like Hlala Nami are created, the legacy of voices like Eric Moyo’s endures—a testament to a life lived in song, a son deeply missed, and a voice that now joins the eternal choir.
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