Gospel singer bags award
Nwabisa Pondoyi
Ahead of his second Homecoming Concert, Knysna gospel singer Loyiso Vakele has bagged an award in the Independent National Gospel Music Awards (Ingoma) for his Ngiyabonga Jesu single translated as “I am grateful, oh God”.
The 28-year-old’s single was crowned best gospel music video at the award ceremony held recently at Mogale City in Krugersdorp on 19 October.
Nominated in two categories, one of which was for best worship album, Vakele said the award feels like an endorsement that he is on the right track. “It means someone out there does recognise the hard work I put into my musical journey. I am now a step closer to my dreams.”
He said he is both humbled and grateful to everyone who has been routing for him on his musical journey. “This is to everyone who has taken the time to not only do this but vote for me too. Even though we don’t make the music for votes or recognition, an award is a confidence booster.”
A win a first attempt
Vakele represented the entire Southern Cape and won at first attempt. He said his win is merely an indication of what the Southern Cape has to offer. “There are so many gifted, hardworking and versatile artists in this area and if I could achieve this then surely it is possible for them too,” he said.
The singer is in process of organising his second annual Homecoming Concert which is aimed at giving back to the community. He started the project with slain ANC councillor Victor Molosi, who was murdered before the first concert.
This year’s event is set to take place on 30 November, at the Percy Mdala High School auditorium. As part of his objectives, Vakele said he will be giving away a laptop to a top achiever from the high schools in the northern areas – on condition that the learner has applied for and has been accepted at their university of choice, as a boost to improve their academic performance.
Flow of goodwill
The artist also said he is encouraged to do more after friends of the concert took it upon themselves to raise funds and bought groceries to donate towards the event. Detailing why this Homecoming Concert is important Vakele simply stated, “Lift as you rise,” before adding, “We are all about academic excellence, pushing sports and arts in our respective communities. We believe these are the tools to keep our youth away from drugs and excessive alcohol abuse.
We believe these initiatives inspire and model the kind of character we wish to see in our communities. I feel concerts of this nature also grant local artists an opportunity to not only showcase their talents but contribute towards building the community.”
Vakele said he dreams of his work as a gospel artist being recognised at the level of Grammy or BET awards in five or ten years from now and that he intends working towards that dream.
“By then the Homecoming Concert should have a bursary for outstanding learners and we would also host revivals that address pressing issues faced by our community, and more amazing albums in Southern Cape.”
Attendees of the Homecoming Concert can look forward to the effervescent Grame Khalimi, Knysna’s actor who will be directing the programme. He said musically they aim to deliver only the best and that he will be celebrating his award through new songs of praise and worship.
“Lundi Joxo will deliver his latest offering, and Afro soul and gospel group SSPEL will give attendees a taste of their new album.”