London teenager Zoe Oputah, winner of our Harmonise gospel talent search, makes her recording debut with the release of Acoustic Gospel Volume Two on 17 November 2008.
At 16, Zoe is the youngest artist on the album to write and perform her own material with her track entitled All That I Am.
Zoe sealed her place on the album in April by winning Harmonise, Christian Aid’s nationwide gospel competition. She beat 35 other acts from across the UK to claim the crown.
£1.50 from every sale of Acoustic Gospel Volume Two will be donated to Christian Aid.
Buy it now!
A star is born
Zoe, who is a member of the World Evangel Choir in Bermondsey and youth choir RaRe, has been singing since she was seven and composing her own music since the age of 11.
In addition to appearing on the album Zoe has been working with Christian Aid as a youth ambassador, representing the charity at various live events and festivals throughout 2009.
Zoe said: ‘I entered the competition firstly as a challenge for myself. I knew that I'd probably be the youngest person there with the least experience, but I saw that as a positive thing, a tool I could use to build up on myself as a performer and minister.
‘Also, I joined because I love gospel. I love being around people who share my passion and who I can gain from as well as share with.
‘I was elated to have won as the standard of the competition was very high. I’m still getting used to the idea actually!’
Buy or download – and donate
The album, put together by Rockhill Music, features 18 new tracks presenting the best of British gospel, from soulful jazz, to folk guitar music, combining traditional gospel with an eclectic mix of modern beats.
£1.50 from the sale of every CD will be donated to Christian Aid and will be used to help fund local partner organisations across Africa that specialise in helping to improve the lives of children.
Acoustic Gospel Volume Two is available to buy or download from www.acousticgospel.com for £10.
The album can also be bought from high street retailers including HMV and Wesley Owen.
Jahaziel, winner of the best gospel act at this year’s Mobo awards said: ‘Great UK artists, great music and an even greater message. What more can you ask for?’
Mobo-winner Beverley Knight added: ‘Everyone knows that I like to support young UK talent and so I am happy to support Acoustic Gospel Volume Two. As well as the great gospel singers on the record £1.50 from the sale of each album will go to children’s projects funded by Christian Aid, so here’s hoping people get behind it.’