Soul Influence
Soul Influence is an a cappella septet, African in it's choice of rhythm and beat, Afro-jazz in its musical style, Christian in its conviction and lyrics, service to God and fellow man in it's focus.
The groups name reflects its desire to Influence Souls through its music ministry. It can be felt in the simple melodies which you’ll find yourself humming to long after you’ve heard them. It is comprised of young people from Zimbabwe, Kenya, Zambia and The Democratic Republic of Congo, who headed a call to work for God through the unifying power of music and its ability to transform lives.
Against a backdrop of Western Culture, Soul Influence produces a fusion of distinct African spiritual sounds of Zulu, Shona, Ndebele, Bemba, Lingala, Tonga, Taita and Swahili origin with contemporary Christian gospel music. Soul Influence sings richly layered vocal harmonies, combining the intricate beat and rhythm of the motherland with the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music. The result, a powerful sound that is pleasing to the ear and soothing to the soul. The music is deeply rooted in African tradition and culture but the message is universal, it’s the message of Jesus Christ. The sound and rhythm of the music brings to life the vibrancy of Africa to the hearts of those who hear it.
Soul Influence believes that its purpose for being here on earth is greater than itself. That is why they are more than just a singing group. Their prayer is to reach out to both the local and universal community and in so doing better the society we live in. They are the AIDS Ambassadors of Africa to the world. By raising their voices in song, they hope to raise the awareness of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa. Soul Influence is working hand in hand with the York Region AIDS Committee in support of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
With a humble beginning of four (4) members in March 2003 the group is now composed of seven (7) members and is currently based in Toronto, Canada. The group has performed at various events namely The Urban Aids Concert with Artists like Alicia Keys, Nelly Furtado K-OS & Keisha Chante. The Stephen Lewis Foundation Gala, The Harry Jerome Awards, Various Festivals, Churches, Schools, Corporate Functions & Fundraising events just to name a few.
With a common vocal combination of Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass, Soul Influence is: Uitsile Ndlovu (Soprano/ Alto), Dorothy Ghettuba (Soprano), Miriam Chimanga (Alto), Fred Onsoti (Tenor), Simba Nyawiri (Tenor/ Bass/ Vocal Percussion), Matthew Kashila (Bass, Tenor) and Valentine Mandeya (Bass, Percussion).
Soul Influence has chosen to donate partial proceeds from the sale of this CD to The Stephen Lewis Foundation. Their website says, “As the AIDS Ambassadors of Africa to the rest of the world, we hope to encourage global action against the epidemic. Through song we hope to raise awareness of the HIV Pandemic that is destroying Africa .Through our ministry of music we hope to strengthen and support the fight that is already underway to combat this dreaded disease.”
It’s not only about singing, but about making a difference!
Courtney Williams, Manager
Soul Influence
Suite 80
425 Rathburn Road East
Mississauga, Ontario Canada L4Z 1H6
