Ncebakazi Msomi Reflects on Faith, Music and Purpose

Ncebakazi Msomi, a powerhouse vocalist from the Eastern Cape, South Africa, has a voice that has carried through the years, touching hearts with its depth and passion. In this exclusive feature, she opens up about her journey of faith, music, and purpose, sharing personal lessons and stories that few have heard before.

She grew up in East London in a large family that prioritized God, music, and education. Music played a central role in her household, and she began singing during family Bible study and prayer sessions. By the age of seven, she was performing solos during church services. Her first major solo for a large audience was at the Absa Stadium at age 16 or 17, singing “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” Audience members reportedly left their cars to return as the music drew them in, confirming to her that God uses music to draw people closer.

Ncebakazi first gained national recognition when Lindelani Mkhize invited her to join the iconic Joyous Celebration ensemble. She describes the experience as a training ground for understanding music presentation and engaging diverse audiences. A pivotal moment came when she stepped in mid-song during a church event, catching the attention of Mkhize and leading to her invitation to Joyous Celebration. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to God’s purpose while navigating an environment that can pressure artists to conform to trends.

Her debut solo album, The 34th Psalm, marked a defining moment in her career. The album topped charts, earned multiple award nominations including the Crown Gospel Music Awards and the SAMAs, and won Song of the Year for “Ukufezwa Kwamadinga” at the Ingoma Awards. In 2024, the album was certified Gold by RISA, cementing her impact in South African gospel music. “Ukufezwa Kwamadinga” holds deep personal meaning, rooted in her childhood and inspired by her mother’s anointed singing.

Her latest project, The 37th Psalm, draws inspiration from Psalm 37, highlighting trust in God’s promises and righteous living. Pre-released singles like “Yebo NguYe” and “Balekela kuYe/Abadiniweyo” center Jesus at the heart of the gospel narrative, guiding listeners toward faith, salvation, and rest. Ncebakazi shares that the album’s creation was a journey of faith, with God providing the majority of the songs and directing her to abandon her usual songwriting approach to follow His plan.

Alongside her music, Ncebakazi maintains a corporate and banking career, balancing both worlds through dedication and reliance on God’s grace. She has managed this dual path for 15 years without faltering. In seasons of waiting, doubt, or closed doors, she leans on scripture and counts her blessings, trusting that God’s timing aligns with destiny moments.

Her husband’s unwavering support has been central to her ministry, encouraging her to pursue the fullness of her calling. Despite growing recognition and platforms, Ncebakazi remains grounded in her local church, serving with humility and prioritizing her relationship with God above fame.

Beyond music, she enjoys competitive sports, although adult responsibilities and ministry limit her time for hobbies. When discouraged, she leans on Joshua 21:45 and songs like Let the Church Say Amen and Stand to remain encouraged. For Ncebakazi, being “Young and Spiritually Inspired” means living fully attuned to God’s Spirit, allowing Christ’s reality to shape her life and ministry.

Through her music, personal testimony, and ministry, Ncebakazi Msomi continues to inspire a generation of worshippers, demonstrating that gospel music can be both spiritually uplifting and deeply transformative.