Gospel star’s joy to inspire rural youth to dream

AWARD-winning gospel star Betusile Mcinga described returning to his birthplace of Willowvale and performing in front of the people he grew up with, especially singing for AmaXhosa King Mpendulo Sigcawu, as the highlight of his career so far.

The Zundithwala hitmaker was one of the national stars who performed at the Xhosa Carnival at Nqadu Great Place, Willowvale, this week.

“Making me even happier was to sing in front of children from the surrounding villages who might [in future] be in the music industry,” he said Betusile.

The 32-year-old gospel sensation, who in his teenage years was a backing singer for his mother Lusanda Mcinga, spent almost an hour on stage, singing songs from his four albums.

Betusile released his debut solo album Mandibe Ngowakho in 2007, which sold more than 25 000 copies nationwide.

His follow-up album in 2010, Inceba Zika Jesu, also sold more than 25 000 copies. He later released Kuphelele and this year Intando Yakho.

In 2014, Betusile received national recognition when he received his first Crown Gospel Music award nomination. He was voted as the Best Newcomer and his popular song Zundithwala was voted Song of The Year in 2014.

Last month, Betusile was named Best Gospel Artist in the Mpumalanga Awards.

King Sigcawu said: “Betusile is a successful youth from Willowvale who is an inspiration to others”. — lulamilef@dispatch.co.za