Gospel jamboree

The bill will be topped by the so-called “Queen of Gospel” herself, Hlengiwe Mhlaba. Originally from KwaZulu-Natal, she has become a national household name. Hlengiwe started singing professionally just over eight years ago, with her debut album Dwala Lami being released in 2005. She has since released six more albums and four live DVDs, and has collected a South African Music Award and numerous Crown Gospel Awards along the way.

Veteran gospel artist Solly Mahlangu spent 20 years in ministry before deciding to focus on gospel singing to spread his message. His powerful, energetic stage presence and active performances, coupled with the warmth with which he interacts with his audiences, all make Mahlangu a compelling performer. At the fourth Crown Gospel Awards in 2011, he walked away with the awards for Best Male Gospel Artist, Best Gospel Artist and Best Gospel Song.

The third star in the Praises line-up is S’fiso Ncwane, also from KwaZulu-Natal. Ncwane started singing at the tender age of eight, and by the time he was 10, he was singing isiCathamiya gospel songs. He started playing keyboards, bass guitar and drums before releasing his first album Vulamasango. Since then he has gone on to release more albums and to win awards at the Crown Gospel Awards.

All three musicians will be performing with a live band and each will do a 70-minute set.