Newcastle gospel musician Veli Nhlengethwa makes waves in the music industry

Veli Nhlengethwa is slowly making a name for himself in the music industry.

The 33-year-old recently displayed his talent in The Independent National Gospel Music Awards (INGOMA).

Veli was raised in oSizweni, and said music always played a major role in his life; from singing in the church choir to performing for his community.

“I knew I wanted to pursue music as a career one day, so I made it my life’s mission to make this happen.”

Veli recorded his first album in Durban in 2015 titled, Isiphephelo, meaning ‘My refuge’.

Finally, in 2016 his hard work paid off and his album was complete.

A few months ago, Veli came across a webpage that would ultimately change his life as a struggling musician forever.

It was the opportunity to be apart of the INGOMA’s.

The competition entailed having to submit his album as well as his profile online, and an entrance fee of R400 per category entered.

Veli entered the following categories:

Best Traditional Gospel Album,

Best African Gospel Artist, and

Best Gospel Cover Sleeve.

“I was contacted shortly after I entered. Organisers told me I was invited to the INGOMA nominations.”

Here, it was announced Veli received a spot in all three categories.

“This was amazing! It was proof that I was meant to be doing music, and that greater things await me.”

In order to win,Veli needs all the help he can get from his fellow residents as the final results and winners are determined by public votes.

His main aim is to win the prize for the Best African Gospel Artist.

This will also take him on a month-long trip to the United Kingdom, where he will get the opportunity to visit some of the best leading music schools.

“An opportunity like this is a once in a lifetime thing, and will definitely advance my music skills.”

Veli said he felt positive about the competition.

The INGOMA Awards forms part of the INGOMA Foundation, which is a registered Non-Profit Organisation. It was founded in 2013 by a group of youngsters who were actively involved in the gospel music industry.

Veli considers competitions such as this a blessing for people from small rural developments such as oSizweni.

“Being a part of this is evident that no matter where you come from, dreams can always come true if you work hard,” he concluded.

If you would like to help Veli win the INGOMA’s, simply SMS, INGOMAS Best African Gospel Artist [based in SA] Veli Nhlengethwa to 40439, at R2 per SMS.

Voting closes on August 10.

Also read: Old Tooters ride on to Vryheid