Celebrate Mbilini’s birthday in style
Often spotted performing at every other gospel music event and sometimes taking church to guests at corporate events with his reviving performances, Bay gospel singer Thembelani Mbilini invites the public to celebrate his birthday in style at Chosen Generation Ministries International on Friday December 21.
Born and bred in Motherwell, the Nelson Mandela Metro Gospel Awards-winning singer sang his heart out in gospel tunes from an early age but only officially cut his teeth in the industry in 2007, when he released his debut album, Iziqhamo.
The singer credits his mother and maternal grandmother for his natural singing talent, which he only fully embraced at Douglas Mbopa High School, where he joined the School Christian Organisation (SCO).
He discovered his gift after he entered a singing competition at Mboniselo Primary School.
“I never really sang in primary school because I was focussed on sport, but after taking part in that competition I realised I had the voice, so I sang more in my high school SCO and community gospel groups,” Mbilini said.
His second album, Intsikelelo, followed two years after Iziqhamo and he has four albums and one DVD to his name.
“The DVD is a collection of music videos I’d shot for songs I released between 2007 and 2011,” he said.
While Mbilini has performed on countless stages, even moving to Johannesburg for five years in 2008, some moments remain more memorable than others.
Career highlights include singing for former president Jacob Zuma and President Cyril Ramaphosa during their visits to Port Elizabeth, his performances on SABC TV gospel shows It’s Gospel Time and Gospel Gold, and when he won a Nelson Mandela Metro Gospel Award in 2017.
He received an award for Song of the Year for Noah from his 2016 album, Uyaphila uJesu.
Mbilini’s Birthday Gospel Celebration will start at 3pm on Friday. He will perform alongside Bulelani Koyo, Sisanda Mjekula, Sne Mjuza, Mzee B, and Sandile Mati.
Entry to the event is free and birthday presents for Mbilini are welcome.
He will also perform at the second annual Motherwell Picnic Festival on Wednesday December 26 at 2 Fields in NU8.