BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE-In an unforgettable night of glitz, glamor, and worship, the annual Crown Gospel Awards took place at the Gallagher Convention Centre last Saturday.
When reached for comment Crown Gospel Awards Eswatini representative Larry Mhlanga shared with this publication that a crowd of over 4000 music lovers, dressed in their best, came together to celebrate the best of South African Gospel music and pay homage to the late Zanele Mbokazi Nkambule.
“South African Honourable Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton Mckenzie, graced the event and presented the highly coveted Artist and Song of the Year Award. In a touching moment, the Minister presented the SALT Award to the late Zanele Mbokazi Nkambule, honouring her invaluable contributions to the South African Gospel music industry,” shared Mhlanga.
From the infectious beats of Jumbo to the soul-stirring vocals of Solly Mahlangu, the night was a musical extravaganza that kept the crowd on their feet. The star-studded line-up included winners such as Sibusiso Nzima for Best Video, Sbu Noah for Best Album, Andile kaMajola for Best Artist and Best Songwriter, Xolly Mncwango for Best Female Artist and Most Downloaded Song, and Solly Mahlangu for Classic of All Times.
The glamour and pageantry on the red carpet were a sight to behold, as the guests arrived in their best ball gowns and black-tie attire. From up-and-coming artists to industry heavyweights, the red carpet buzzed with excitement, capturing the spirit of the night.
As the audience danced, sang, and prayed together, the vision of Zanele Mbokazi Nkambule, to elevate South African Gospel music to new heights, was realized. The Crown Gospel Awards, now a fixture in the music calendar, continue to carry her legacy forward. See list of All Winners.
Mbokazi –Nkambule was the founder of the Crown Gospel Awards, Ukhozi FM radio host, motivational speaker, and businesswoman. She passed away on 12 August this year.She was diagnosed with Lung cancer in May this year. She was 52 years old; she was married to Eswatini’s Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule.
