Annatoria’s Global Ascent: From Harare Choirs to Grammy and MOBO Recognition
Mhepo News Reporter | Mhepo - Breaking News Zimbabwe
From the church choirs of Harare to the grand stages of the UK, Annatoria (Blessing Annatoria Chitapa) has emerged as one of Zimbabwe's brightest international stars.
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| Annatoria's recent wins mark a significant moment for Zimbabwean music on the world stage. |
A Grammy-Nominated Songwriter
Annatoria earned her Grammy nomination in the Best Gospel Performance/Song category for her contribution as a songwriter on the track “Church” by acclaimed American gospel artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard, featuring the legendary John Legend. Overjoyed, Annatoria shared on social media, "A Grammy nominated writer. What an honour? Thank you, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, for allowing me to be a part of this amazing project."
Crowned at the MOBOs
In a major career milestone, Annatoria won the prestigious Best Gospel Act award at the 2025 MOBO Awards. The MOBOs, which celebrate excellence in Black music and culture, recognized her for pushing the boundaries of gospel by blending it with Afrobeats, R&B, and contemporary worship. Her victory is seen as a significant moment for the growing influence of UK gospel music in the mainstream industry.
Her Journey to Stardom
Born Blessing Annatoria Chitapa in Harare, she moved to Dudley in the West Midlands, UK, at the age of seven. Raised in a faith-centered home with pastor parents, she was immersed in gospel music from an early age. She cites gospel icons like Tasha Cobbs, Donnie McClurkin, and Kierra Sheard as major influences who inspired her to use her voice for ministry.
Annatoria's breakout moment came in 2020 when she won the ninth series of The Voice UK. Under the mentorship of pop star Olly Murs, her powerful renditions of songs like Robbie Williams' "Angels" captivated the nation and secured her a recording contract with Island Records, launching her professional music career.
In 2021, she released her debut album, "Count My Blessings," featuring the uplifting single "I Smile." The album showcased her unique sound, blending R&B, Afrobeats, and pop with a core gospel message. Her artistry is rooted in her faith, with a mission to spread positivity and connect with hearts worldwide.
Mhepo Commentary: A Zimbabwean Voice, A Global Stage
Annatoria's success is a powerful testament to the incredible talent within the Zimbabwean diaspora and its growing influence on global culture. Her journey from Harare to winning one of the UK's biggest talent shows, and now earning Grammy and MOBO recognition, is more than just a personal triumph—it is a story of cultural ambassadorship. She has masterfully blended the sounds of her heritage with international genres, creating a unique musical identity that resonates across continents. Annatoria's rise is not just about one artist's success; it's about the doors she is opening for other Zimbabwean artists and the powerful statement she is making about the universal appeal of our nation's creative spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Annatoria (born Blessing Annatoria Chitapa) is a UK-based Zimbabwean gospel singer who won The Voice UK in 2020. She is now a MOBO Award winner and a Grammy-nominated songwriter.
She won the Best Gospel Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards and received a Grammy nomination as a songwriter for the song "Church" by Tasha Cobbs Leonard ft. John Legend.
Annatoria was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, and moved to the United Kingdom at the age of seven. She proudly represents her Zimbabwean heritage in her music and career.
Her music is primarily gospel but is known for its unique blend of R&B, Afrobeats, and contemporary pop influences.
David (Solar Sales)