Gospel star feels thankful
Tsakane – Bheki Sangweni (35) is celebrating his success in the music industry, following two awards recently won at the Gauteng Gospel Music Awards.
He managed to scoop these for the best traditional song category and the best praise song category, which he’s very excited about.
“This shows that my work is appreciated, hence it gives me hope for a better tomorrow in the industry,” he says.
Sangweni was born in Vryheid in KwaZulu Natal and despite the separation of his parents when he was aged five, he says never lacked love.
Read: Gospel stars to help poor families
At an early age, he also faced the challenge of losing his father when he passed away.
But the youngster recalls singing in the school choir and community choir in 1994 – and says that’s where he saw his strengths.
“During my school years, I loved music and as a result, had joined two choirs at the same time.
“I never missed any rehearsals and performances.
“On weekdays, I was a member of the school choir called ‘Angels of God’, while on weekends I would be seen singing with the ‘Voices of Peace’ choir,” he says.
After matriculating in 2000, Sangweni already knew that gospel music was going to be a big part of his future.
“Growing up, I listened to artists such as Rebacca Malope, Vuyo Mokoena and Sifiso Ncwane and every time I heard them sing, I got inspired to praise God the way they did.
“Though I didn’t know how I was going to make this a reality, I kept the faith,” he says.
Seeking better opportunities, the young man moved to Johannesburg, where he did various jobs including being a petrol attendant and a coremaker.
“A colleague of mine, William Muthusi, heard me singing while working in 2006 – and as he was impressed, he advised me to go and record a demo.
Read: Gospel star comes home
“He took me to a studio in Soweto, where I recorded two songs,” he says.
Though those two songs didn’t get much positive response, Sangwneni still persevered with singing at various functions in the community.
As he felt ready to unleash his talent seven years later, he was finally able to release a 10 track album titled ‘Umhlobo Wami’, which received great support.
He released his second album in 2015 titled ‘Ukholo Lwami’, which has also been a great success.
Sangweni thanks everyone who’s helped him to get to where his is today in the industry, including one of his good friends: Mfanufikile ‘Fiky’ Mngoma.
