The Moipei Quartet, also known in their country as the Kenyan Angels walked away with an award in the Best Of Africa category at the 4th annual Crown Gospel Music Awards. On Sunday 6th November 2011, approximately eight thousand people attended this prestigious event hosted at the impressive iNkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC Arena) in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
The evening kicked off in prayer, and scripture readings were emphasized throughout the 5 hour event. An enormous cross was central to the stage production; it remained lit, keeping Christ at the centre of the awards. Adding to the excitement of the event, all who attended dressed for the occasion. Cutting edge fashion, red carpet treatment and amazing live performances were the order of the evening.
Eighteen year old triplets Mary, Martha and Magdalene and their younger sister Seraphine (16) had an experience of a life time. “The awards ceremony was something we have never seen before, it was incredible, we do not have events like this in Kenya” says, Mary Moipei.
The event was presented by KwaZulu Natal government officials, including the Premier Dr Zweli Mkhize, as well as comedians and gospel greats. The performances were divided by categories and each showcased a three part seamless medley. Excited and well prepared for their live performance, the sisters dressed from top to toe in traditional Maasai attire and sang ‘Kokoliko’, a track taken from their nominated album ‘In The Land Of The Lion’. This acapella album recording features traditional as well as popular songs sung in English, Latin, Kiswahili, Luhya and Maasai. Recorded at B’ware recording studio in Nanyuki, the studio was set up to offer recording facilities for religious artists and groups living away from urban areas. The album is packaged with an incredible DVD with footage filmed in various locations in Maasailand.
It was evident that the Moipei family arrived in Durban for the experience and not for an award. “We did not believe we were going to win. When they announced us as the Best Of Africa winner we did not even have a speech prepared!” adds Mary. The girls did what they do best; in honour of their award they sang a snippet of their song ‘My Tribute’ with incredible harmonies that left the crowd stunned. Nominated in the same category were Frank Chimpanzi, Samuel Massingarela and Bakhe Dlamini, whom the girls said they were honoured to meet and would stay in contact with.
Having a few hours to grasp their accolade the Moipei Quartet has a list of people to thank. “On behalf of my sisters, we would like to thank our fans, family, and friends for their on-going support and The Catholic International Community Of Nairobi for making our trip possible”, says Mary.
Not only are these four talented sisters known for their famous song ‘The Little Brown Church’ that won them this title, but they were appointed the first ever UNICEF Child Ambassadors in Kenya. Although still teenagers, they have been singing for over a decade. Inspired by their parents, Nicholas and Christine Moipei, both of whom have been deeply involved in their children’s careers, the girls have the opportunity to pursue their musical talent throughout university and beyond.
The Moipei Quartet are preparing for a spectacular event this December in their home town of Nairobi, the Capital of Kenya. Look out for more information on Integrity Media Africa’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/IntegrityMediaAfrica.
Congratulation our angels…u really inspire me,thanks.