Born in Zimbabwe and raised in a deeply Christian family, Annatoria (Blessing Annatoria Chitapa) showcases her unique blend of gospel, soul, and contemporary pop, which has earned her a growing following across the world.
She rose to prominence in 2020 when she won The Voice UK, becoming the first Zimbabwean to claim the title.
The United States-based Zimbabwean gospel singer Annatoria has announced she will feature on the upcoming album by Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Travis Greene, as noted by a online media publication 263 Culture.
Annatoria said in an interview she was humbled by the opportunity and excited to showcase Zimbabwean talent on a global stage.
“This is my first time being on tour with such a big artist. My role model has me featured in his new album. Can you believe it?” she said.
She also said that more Zimbabwean artists are gaining international recognition, noting a surge in local talent being invited to festivals and performances abroad.
“Lately, we have seen an increase in the number of Zimbabweans performing on different international platforms. This shows that our music is not only for local audiences but appeals to a wider global market,” she said.
Annatoria also praised fellow Zimbabweans making strides internationally, pointing to actor Tafara Nyatsanza, who recently featured alongside Idris Elba in the Hollywood film Beast.
She was part of Greene’s “Made A Way Tour”, among fellow Zimbabweans The Unveiled Choral Group, Tembalami and Nigerians worshippers Kaestrings and Grace Idowu held at Celebration Centre Church in Harare on the 18th of July.
AMERICAN multiple Grammy winner Travis Montorius Greene is celebrated for his powerful blend of contemporary worship and urban gospel music.
Annatoria began her musical journey in the United Kingdom, where she pursued her passion for singing while studying at Dudley College. Despite her initial plans to study biomedical sciences, fate had other plans for her when she auditioned for The Voice UK.
Following her triumph on The Voice UK, Annatoria wasted no time and released her debut album titled “Count My Blessings” on 30th April 2021, through Universal Music. Notably, this achievement made her the youngest-ever winner in The Voice UK’s history to release an album. The first single from the album, “I Smile,” was an interpretation of the Kirk Franklin original.
