Easter feature

From an African music perspective, Music In Africa celebrates Easter by paying tribute to some of the continent’s best-known gospel musicians who dedicated their careers to conveying the message of Christ in song. We also remember late musicians who made a massive contribution to the gospel music scene: South African artists S’fiso Ncwane and Lundi Tyamara as well as Zimbabwe’s Agnes Gudza and Joyce Simeti.

Joyous Celebration (South Africa) – ‘Hallelujah Nkateko’

‘Hallelujah Nkateko’ (Hallelujah Blessing) is a song by South African gospel artist Sibusiso Mthembu featuring popular gospel ensemble Joyous Celebration. Sitting at more than 3 million YouTube views, ‘Hallelujah Nkateko’ is the first South African gospel video to have more than 1 million plays. The lyrics, describe Jesus as powerful and a conqueror.

Ada (Nigeria) – ‘Only You Jesus’

Shot by Carelfilms, ‘Only You Jesus’ is a music video by the sensational female Nigerian artist Ada that shows the power of Jesus Christ in challenging situations. The powerful video reaches out to people through her unique sound that impacts lives of believers. Available on iTunes and Amazon, its audio was produced by Kelly Lyon of Spiritual Beatz.

Takesure Zama Ncube & Worship addicts (Zimbabwe) – ‘Agere Pachigaro’

Taken off the first live DVD by Worship Addicts titled Worship Altar Volume One, ‘Agere Pachigaro’ is a powerful song by Zimbabwean gospel artist Takesure Zama Ncube & Worship addicts. The song, whose lyrics heaps praise to Jesus Christ, won him a Zimbabwe Achievers Award gong for the International Gospel Artist. ‘Agere Pachigaro’ is among Zama’s songs that has made him to become a force to reckon with on the gospel genre.

S'fiso Ncwane (South Africa) – ‘Kulungile Baba’

Released in 2010, ‘Kulungile Baba’ (All is well father) is a song by the late Sfiso Ncwane. In the song, Ncwane encourages his fans to put their trust to Jesus in whatever challenges they face. The song propelled Ncwane to stardom, making him one of the successful gospel musicians in the country. ‘Kulungile Baba’ earned him an accolade at the South African Music Awards.

Nacee (Ghana) – ‘Yewo Nyame A Yewo Adze’

‘Yewo Nyame A Yewo Adze’ is a gospel song by Nacee featuring Ernest Opoku. The songs has enjoyed massive airplay for several months and was voted Gospel Song of the Year at the recently held Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs).