Here to spread the Word!

Born and bred in Potchefstroom, 29-year-old Neo Phiri has recently released a single that he says will give hope in these trying times. It wasn’t an easy journey for him to become the man that he is today, however.

The husband, father and music minister was just six months old when he went to stay with his grandparents. They passed away when he was 20 years old. “My life started off extremely tough,” he said. “I had to stay with my grandparents due to unforeseen circumstances, which later affected me very badly, causing me to have doubts about myself,” he explained.

Through finding Christ in his teens, Neo discovered his purpose and regained his confidence. Trying to make a mark in the industry, he worked with different people on different projects before releasing his own ”baby”. “I worked with numerous groups in Potchefstroom, besides doing music at my local church. A few months down the line, I released a beautiful single with my producer, Tshepiso Motetesi, and my backup vocals, soprano Mapini, alto Hlompho and tenor Mohau,” he said.

Neo believes that, had he not found and followed his purpose, he most likely never would have released a single by the end of last month. “The song was inspired by a hunger and thirst to hear from God,” he said. Many industries have taken a hard knock because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the music industry is no exception. Neo says his new single was written from a place of pain.

“It took me many years to release this song. I reached a point where I felt that my spirit was heavy and I couldn’t bear it”, he says. For the artist, this was a major turning point in his faith, where he realised all his life experiences had been leading up to his single, “Release your word”. “When people listen to my song, above anything else, I want them to feel the presence of God,” Neo said.

Since streaming last month (30 July), Neo says the song has received a warm reception from listeners. “It is the most heartwarming and satisfying thing. I could change someone’s life through my ministry and that is priceless.” Neo added. Besides trusting the Lord, Neo says he wouldn’t have been able to make it without the support of his family.

“I am married to the love of my life and we have been blessed with three beautiful kids. My wife is my moral support. Her support has brought so much change in my life, I could go on and on about the positive influence she has been in my life, but I will keep it short,” he laughed.

Neo wishes to express his gratitude to everyone who has been following him and believing in his ministry. “They should continue sharing this message of hope and I only pray that my ministry will continue impacting their lives and bringing them closer to God,” he says.

He hopes the song encourages people that, no matter how hard it gets, the Will of God will always prevail. “Release your word” is available on all major streaming platforms. Give it a listen, and get your hope revived!