Local pastor to set stage alight at gospel explosion

GOSPEL music lovers can expect a gospel music explosion when various artists set the stage alight at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace on Saturday, February 27 at 8pm.

On stage expect to see the talented Solly Mahlangu and Lebo Sekgobela as well as upcoming artists Nkele Banda and Fanie Mondlane, in what promises to be an unforgettable gospel concert.

Born and raised in Tembisa and living in Birch Acres is gospel extraordinaire and pastor Solly Mahlangu. He is one of the headline acts of the show and is expected to perform his well-known gospel hits.

The renowned gospel artist is popularly loved for his hit songs ‘Obrigado’ and ‘Siyabonga Jesu (Wahamba nathi)’.

Mahlangu said he was excited to be on a stage in his region and that he’d be giving fans what they know and love as well as a taste of what he’s been cooking up for his upcoming album.

“It’s been four years since my last recording. During this time I’ve been travelling and ministering in different countries and picking up different sounds, which I’ve incorporated into my music. Even Obrigado sounds different – we’ve added an east African beat to it, and the guitar changes it a little bit,” he said.

“Fans can expect worship, reggae and a bit of eastern and western sounds mixed together.”

The popular ‘Obrigado’ will be sung in 15 different languages.

“From travelling the continent I have learnt that ‘Obrigado’ is a gospel anthem being sung in different countries in different languages. When I travel I go and learn different things and come back home and implement. I will be singing in Shona and Swahili and many other languages,” he added.

It’s been four years since the release of his last album. Mahlangu said this year he would definitely have a live DVD recording of his new upcoming release.

“I have to record this year. I’m not able to say where or when, but there are three major names I have been talking to. Watch the space. People must come to the show to get a glimpse of what to expect.”

Mahlangu has not only made his mark in the gospel music industry but is also pastoring a church alongside his wife, Nomkhosi Mahlangu.

“I am pastoring one of the fastest growing churches, Word Praise Christian Centre International, at number 7 Major Road, Olifantsfontein. What’s great is that at 9am every Sunday I’m in church as a pastor.”

The pastor and singer said at church there was no Mr ‘Obrigado’ and there was no show.

“I’m not an artist that happened to start a church, but I’m a man of God who happened to sing,” he pointed out.

So what’s his advice for upcoming gospel artists?

“I’ve been singing for 34 years and I only had my success in the last seven years. It took me 27 years of consistency. You’ve got to be diligent and focused. Sharpen your skill and talent. When people pay at the door to see you it must be worth their time and money,” he said.

“Even today I rehearse and work on my act and presentation. I always ask myself ‘Solly what can I do to be better?’”

The gospel music genre is growing in popularity in South Africa. “It is the music of life – it’s not just hype music, and it cuts into the soul and heart. Gospel music is not just about the beat – it’s about the message. Your lifestyle also becomes the message. Gospel is good news and we take our cues from the Bible for the gospel.”

Tickets to the ‘Gospel Explosion’ are available at the Emperors Palace box office and via Computicket.

Doors open at 7pm, and the show will start at 8pm. Tickets are R250 per person, with dinner and show packages available from R430 per person.