Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe was packed on Sunday as artists and fans gathered for a tribute concert celebrating the life and music of the late gospel singer Grace Chinga.
The event, dubbed Zikomo Malawi, was organised by Chinga’s daughter, Miracle who, currently, is also carving out her own path in gospel music.
Though Grace passed on in 2016, the show was more than just a performance.
The concert kicked off around noon, with artists such as Maggie Mangani, Ndirande Anglican Voices, Shammah Vocals and Great Angels Choir setting the tone with energised performances.
Excitement, however, peaked by 4.30pm when Miracle took the stage, after hours of spirited performances from other acts.
A heartfelt moment happened when Miracle, alongside her brothers Steve Spesho and Israel Chinga, performed a touching tribute song in memory of their mother.
When Miracle began singing her mother’s songs, the audience was taken aback by how closely her voice mirrored that. The energy, delivery and vocal tone brought Grace’s memory to life.
“She sings just like her mother, what a blessing,” said one patron.
During the set, fans were thrilled to hear timeless tracks such as Linga Langa, Ndiululireni and Mwayenera performed live once again.
Afterwards, Theresa Phondo took over performing songs such as Daily and Yesu Wanga before Miracle returned to showcase her original songs.
She wrapped up her final set with fan favourites Thamanga, Mchipululu and Kumwamba Nkodabwitsa, keeping the crowd dancing and praising.
The show continued with performances from artists including Evance Meleka, Kamuzu Barracks, Driemo and Jetu before closing around 9pm.
In an interview, Meleka said he felt honoured to be part of the celebration of Grace Chinga’s legacy and the opportunity to remember her this way.
“Grace wasn’t just a great artist, she was a good person. You can see her impact in how people turned up today. I’m also grateful to Miracle for making this possible, we need this every year,” he said.
Another gospel artist Maggie Mangani, who early in her career worked with Grace Chinga, said the concert was emotional and took her back in time.
“Grace played a big role in shaping my music journey and I can’t talk about my music without her. Being here and performing in her memory means a lot,” she said.
Mangani also praised Miracle for honouring her mother’s legacy while forging her own path and that her voice and stage presence reflect the same power that makes Grace unforgettable.
Born in Blantyre on 28 June 1978, Grace Chinga was a celebrated Malawian gospel artist.
She gained national recognition with her debut album Uleke in 2004, which featured the popular track Thandizo Langa. Her music career continued to flourish with the release of Udzayimba Nyimbo in 2009, followed by Esther in 2016.
Chinga passed away on 17 March 2016 after a short illness
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