Zimbabwe-born and UK-based gospel musician Rhoda Chikapoya, popularly known as Aunty Rhoda, is striking the right chords back home as her latest singles continue to receive generous airplay on local radio stations.
Her two songs, Abundant Grace and He is Lord, are resonating with Zimbabwean audiences, a sign that her ministry through music is steadily penetrating the local gospel scene.
For Aunty Rhoda, who has spent nearly two decades in the background as a backing vocalist for other artists, this recognition is both humbling and affirming.
“My music is a way of preaching the Word,” she told Standard Style. “Getting played on Zimbabwean radio stations not only brings me closer to home, but it also helps me establish networks within the local music circles and possibly open doors for collaborations.”
A devout Christian, Aunty Rhoda says her calling has always been to minister through song. Although she spent years supporting other musicians, she has recently stepped forward as a solo act, determined to take her message to wider audiences.
“I believe my songs carry hope, encouragement and a reminder of God’s love,” she said. “I want the music to go beyond entertainment—to touch lives and strengthen faith.”
While breaking into Zimbabwe’s music circles is a milestone, Aunty Rhoda’s vision stretches beyond borders. She says she wouldn’t mind joining forces with top international gospel musicians to amplify her message.
“Gospel music has no boundaries. If we can collaborate across continents, the message of God’s love will reach even more people. That’s my ultimate goal—to take the music across the globe.”
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With her first singles already making waves, the UK-based gospel singer is also eyeing full-length projects. Plans are underway to record more music and possibly release an album that will cement her place in the gospel fraternity.
For an artist who has spent much of her career in the shadows, the recent breakthrough is symbolic of new beginnings. “I have been preparing for this season,” Aunty Rhoda says. “Now it’s time to let the music speak for itself.”
And if early signs are anything to go by, Zimbabweans are more than ready to embrace her voice.
