Venda singer takes Gospel to Joburg
JOBURG - Colbert Sivhada, known affectionately by his fans as ‘Colby’, is taking his singing talent from Venda to the big city of Johannesburg.
The Venda-born Joburg resident studied electrical engineering in Joburg, after which he worked at a sound company called Murgani Productions.
His talent for singing was recognised at the tender age of 10 and so it was no surprise that while being committed to Murgani Productions, he would continue to pursue his career as a Gospel singer.
Sivhada has used some of his close accident encounters to fuel his passion for performing, which has resulted in him breaking into the South African music industry with his debut album called Merciful God.
This musician and singer, as well as budding pianist, guitarist and business man, struck great success just three months after the completion of his album when he won big at the Crown Gospel Awards, taking home the award for Best Jazz Gospel Artist.
“I am honoured and very grateful for being recognised by the Crown Gospel Awards,” said Sivhada, “Especially as Merciful God is my first album.”
Not just equipped with a beautifully melodic voice, the artist also composed the score for some of the songs on his album, in addition to writing the lyrics for others.
“The album has a contemporary feel with a touch of jazz,” says Sivhada – a lover of jazz, reggae and classical music.
“Although the album can be regarded as ‘gospel’, the sometimes upbeat tempo and lyrics make for easy listening and I am confident that people from all walks of life will enjoy both the gospel and traditional numbers.”
Sivhada is finally breaking into the music industry after years of struggles, and proves that giving up is not an option.
