Everton Mlalazi on Great God and Celestial Chorus: Uniting Voices, Inspiring Faith, and Worshiping Without Boundaries

On 25 February, Johannesburg’s Sandton precinct came alive as gospel lovers and music enthusiasts gathered for the Celestial Chorus and Great God Tour press launch. The evening celebrated faith, unity, and musical excellence, drawing some of South Africa’s most respected gospel voices, including Lebo Sekgobela, Nontokozo Mkhize, and Dumi Mkokstad.

At the center of the moment was Everton Mlalazi, whose Great God album and the second South African edition of Celestial Chorus promise a worship experience of unprecedented scale. In this in-depth conversation, he shares the heart, vision, and spiritual weight behind the movement.

1. The Celestial Chorus and Great God South African Edition launch brought together some of the country’s leading gospel voices. What did that evening mean to you personally and spiritually?

Everton Mlalazi:

That evening was profoundly moving for me. Personally, it was a moment of gratitude — seeing how God continues to use music to unite hearts across nations and different spheres of life. Spiritually, it reaffirmed my conviction that worship transcends boundaries. When voices rise together in praise, we experience a glimpse of heaven’s harmony. It was not just a launch; it was a sacred encounter.

2. This marks the second edition of Celestial Chorus in South Africa. How has the vision grown since its inception, and what makes this year’s celebration unique?

Everton Mlalazi:

The vision has grown from being a musical gathering into a true movement of worship. Initially, we wanted to bring together voices to celebrate God, but now we are witnessing communities being transformed through that unity.

This year’s edition is unique because it integrates deeper collaboration between incredible South African and American artists, choirs, and a 100-piece symphony orchestra — creating a richer, more immersive worship experience that celebrates both musical excellence and divine purpose.

3. Your Great God album is central to this event. What inspired the project, and how does it reflect your spiritual journey at this stage of your ministry?

Everton Mlalazi:

Great God was born out of a season of reflection and surrender. I wanted to capture the essence of God’s greatness — not just in words, but in sound — to remind listeners that even in uncertainty, God remains sovereign.

At this stage of my ministry, I feel called to create music that uplifts faith and restores hope. The album is a testimony of gratitude and a declaration that God’s power still reigns supreme.

4. The production will feature a 100-piece symphonic band — an ambitious musical undertaking. What can audiences expect from this grand arrangement?

Everton Mlalazi:

Audiences can expect a breathtaking fusion of gospel and full symphonic sound. The orchestra brings a new dimension to the worship experience — theatrical, majestic, powerful, and deeply emotional.

Every note has been crafted to draw listeners closer to God’s presence. It’s not just about scale; it’s about creating an atmosphere where heaven and earth meet through music.

5. With a lineup that includes some of Southern Africa’s most respected gospel artists, how did you approach curating the voices for this edition?

Everton Mlalazi:

We prayerfully considered each artist, seeking voices that not only inspire musically but also carry a genuine heart for ministry. The goal was to create a tapestry of sound and spirit — diverse in style, yet united in purpose.

Every artist brings their unique anointing, and together, they form a chorus that magnifies God’s glory.

6. The event is powered by Afrotainment. How important is this partnership in expanding the reach of gospel music?

Everton Mlalazi:

This partnership is a blessing. Afrotainment’s platform allows gospel music to reach audiences who may not always have had access to this beautiful sound. It’s a powerful reminder that gospel is not confined to church walls — it belongs in every space where people seek hope and truth.

Collaborating with such a dynamic brand amplifies the message of faith and unity across cultural lines.

7. Thanks to the generosity of the Bridging Gaps Foundation, the event will be free to attend. How significant is accessibility in your broader mission?

Everton Mlalazi:

Accessibility is at the heart of our mission. The gospel is for everyone — regardless of background or circumstance. Making this event free ensures that no one is left out of the experience of worship and fellowship.

I’m deeply grateful to the Bridging Gaps Foundation for helping us remove barriers and open the doors wide for all to encounter God’s presence.

8. Gospel music serves both as ministry and artistry. How do you balance musical excellence with spiritual responsibility in large-scale productions?

Everton Mlalazi:

For me, excellence is a form of worship. When we give our best musically, we honor the God who gave us those gifts — because God deserves the best.

But excellence must always be guided by humility and purpose. Every rehearsal, every arrangement, every lyric must point back to Christ. The balance comes when artistry serves ministry — not the other way around.

9. What impact do you hope this gathering will have on South Africa’s gospel community and the broader faith movement?

Everton Mlalazi:

I pray it ignites a renewed passion for unity and authenticity in worship. South Africa’s gospel community is rich with talent and spiritual depth, and gatherings like this remind us that we are stronger together.

Beyond music, I hope it inspires believers to live out their faith boldly and to use their gifts to uplift others.

10. Looking ahead, do you envision Celestial Chorus expanding beyond South Africa into a continental or global platform?

Everton Mlalazi:

Absolutely. The vision has always been global. Africa is bursting with divine creativity, and I believe Celestial Choruscan become a platform that showcases that to the world.

We want to take this message of hope, excellence, and unity beyond borders — so that every nation can join in raising a unified voice.

The Sandton launch was more than an announcement — it was a declaration of purpose. With Great God as its spiritual anchor and Celestial Chorus as its unifying force, Everton Mlalazi is shaping a worship experience that merges musical grandeur with deep spiritual conviction.

As anticipation builds, one thing is clear: this is not simply an event — it is a movement, and its sound is destined to echo far beyond South Africa’s borders.