Eric Moyo, a South Africa-based Zimbabwean gospel singer and a member of the renowned Joyous Celebration choir, passed away on Monday, December 20, 2023, after collapsing on stage during a performance. He was 41 years old.
Moyo was singing at the Palmas em Chamas festival in Brazil, a religious event that was broadcast live on social media platforms. According to his record label, Todah Music, he suffered a stroke and a brain bleed that caused him to lose consciousness and fall to the ground. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but he could not be revived.
Moyo’s death has shocked and saddened his fans, friends, and family, who have paid tribute to him on various platforms. He is survived by his wife, Suilan Barreto, and their newborn daughter, Zoe, who was born on October 19, 2023.
Moyo was known for his powerful and soulful voice, his passion for gospel music, and his dedication to his faith. He started his career in 2016, posting song covers on YouTube, before he was discovered by a producer who helped him release his debut album, Grande é o Senhor, in 2017. He joined the Joyous Celebration choir in 2019, and became one of their prominent singers. He also released several singles, including his latest one, Medley: Levanta / Não Fica Assim / Descendência, which was released posthumously.
Zimbabwean gospel music artist and Joyous celebration member Eric Moyo has passed on at the age of 41 after a short illness.
— Charlieafrikka (@JohnsonAwalle) December 20, 2023
A sad day indeed for the Gospel fraternity.
May his gentle soul rest in peace 💔🕊️🕯️#RIPEric #joyouscelebration pic.twitter.com/GNVujLMATQ
Eric Moyo Obituary And Death
Eric Moyo’s death has left a void in the gospel music scene, especially in South Africa and Zimbabwe, where he had a large and loyal fan base. His colleagues and fellow artists have expressed their grief and condolences, and praised his talent and character.
The Joyous Celebration choir posted a statement on their Facebook page, saying: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our brother, friend, and colleague, Eric Moyo. He was a gifted and anointed singer, a humble and kind person, and a faithful servant of God. He will be greatly missed by all of us. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to his wife, daughter, and family. May his soul rest in peace.”
Todah Music, Moyo’s record label, also shared a video on YouTube, showing Moyo’s last performance at the festival. The video description read:
“What an emotionally difficult day! We thought carefully about whether it would be appropriate to share this video today but, given everything we have experienced together, we understand that this is the best way to honor Pedro Henrique, this boy who moved us so much and helped us through difficult times with his interpretations. This is our tribute to him – singer, minister, husband, father, servant of God… who left fulfilling his calling to worship God.”
Other gospel singers and musicians, such as Mthunzi Namba, Ntokozo Mbambo, and Benjamin Dube, also posted messages of sorrow and support on their social media accounts, remembering Moyo’s legacy and impact.
A call for support and respect
As the news of Moyo’s death spread, many people reached out to his family and friends, offering their condolences and assistance. However, some have also criticized and questioned the circumstances of his death, and the authenticity of the video footage that captured his collapse.
Moyo’s family and team have asked for respect and privacy during this difficult time and urged the public to refrain from spreading rumors and false information. They have also thanked everyone who has shown love and support and requested continued prayers and donations for Moyo’s funeral and his daughter’s future.
Eric Moyo’s funeral arrangements have not been announced yet, but his family has said that they will share the details soon. They have also set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for his burial and his daughter’s education. The page has already received over $50,000 in donations, and many heartfelt messages from donors.
