It was an evening of worship inside BK Arena where thousands of gospel music lovers on Sunday, May 5, witnessed energetic and soul-touching performance from Rwanda’s emerging gospel singer and worship leader Chryso Ndasingwa. Ndasingwa, who was launching his debut album ‘Wahozeho’, became only the second gospel musician to fill out BK Arena after Israel Mbonyi successfully headlined two consecutive sold-out Christmas concerts at the same 10,000-seater venue. It was, however, not a one-man show, just like Mbonyi’s as Ndasingwa was joined by a host of high profile musicians like Aimé Uwimana, Rachel Uwineza, Josh Ishimwe as well as music duo Papi Clever and wife Dorcas among other performers to bless the stage. Setting off, renowned gospel disk jockey, DJ Spin, started the evening of worship with some mix of gospel songs from his playlist mostly dominated by Amapiano, a trending genre that has crossed boundaries and gained popularity worldwide. Next up was renowned Himbaza Club, known for their participation in 'East Africa's Got Talent.' They took their drums to the stage performing 'Habwa Ikuzo,' in what was one of the performances that go the gospel faithful entertained by the club’s mind-blowing drum beats and dances. The Burundian drummers are known for their skillful drum playing, a tradition recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) since 2014. And, when it was Asaph Ministries’ turn, they didn’t disappoint either. The worship ministry, which produced various artists including singer Aline Gahongayire, currently leads praise and worship at Zion Temple World Ministries. With their little time on the stage, their performance of one of their songs ‘Izina Risumba Ayandi' went noticed inside the arena, good enough to leave the stage firmly satisfied. ALSO READ: Gospel singer Chryso Ndasingwa’s debut album launch set for May Up next was renowned praise and worship group, True Promises Ministries, which is made mostly of young people from various churches. The worship group rose to stardom thanks to their song 'Mana Urera' among others. But, this time round, they performed 'Ni Bande' and “Umwami ni Mwiza” remix, featuring the music duo James and Daniella in an electric performance that left the audience on their feet before paving way for man of the night Chryso Ndasingwa. Ndasingwa was warmly welcomed to the stage amidst cheers and applause from thousands of faithful fans. The entire arena was filled with phone flash lights to show their appreciation for his upcoming performance. This marked his debut performance at the BK Arena, defying expectations of its past status as a 'white elephant'. Dressed in black, the singer kicked off his set with his song 'Wahozeho', named after his album. He then continued with ‘Niwe' and 'Ndakwihaye', ‘Byararangiye’, ‘Ntajya Ananirwa’ and more. The worshiper held the crowd spellbound with each song he performed and every word he sang, creating an unforgettable experience between him and his audience. Ndasingwa took some break and pave way for Apostle Joshua Ndagijimana Masasu who began his sermon by reading from the Holy Scripture, specifically 1 Samuel 16:14-19 and 27. The passage describes King Saul, who was tormented by an evil spirit after the Spirit of the Lord had departed from him. Saul's attendants suggested finding someone skilled at playing the lyre to soothe him when the evil spirit troubled him. One of Saul's servants mentioned David, a son of Jesse from Bethlehem, as a suitable candidate. Saul then sent messengers to bring David to him. Masasu urged the audience, particularly the youth, to receive salvation. He shared how his life has been transformed since accepting Jesus, emphasising the joy and fulfilment he experiences in his relationship with his Saviour. After the session, the likes of Josh Ishimwe, gospel couple Papi Clever and Dorcas also had their time on stage before Aime Uwimana, a gospel music pioneer, performed 'Urakwiriye Gushimwa' and other hits. Uwimana received an award for his trailblazing contribution to the gospel music scene. The concert was nearing its conclusion and everyone inside the arena had a smile on their faces. Ndasingwa, a member of New Life Bible Church located in Kagarama, Kicukuro district closed his album launch concert with 'Wahozeho' and has been on the spot for about three years, known for songs like 'Ndakwihaye', 'Ntajya Ananirwa', and 'Wakinguye ijuru'. The show ended at 11:30
