Ncebakazi Msomi Unveils Powerful Live Music Video for “Hosanna (Matthew 21:9)” from The 37th Psalm

South African gospel singer Ncebakazi Msomi continues to share her message of faith and worship with the release of the music video for “Hosanna (Matthew 21:9) [Live]”, a performance from her album The 37th Psalm (Live at Emperors Palace). The release brings the song’s worshipful message to a visual format, allowing audiences to experience the live performance beyond the original album recording. Rooted in the biblical expression of praise found in Matthew 21:9, “Hosanna” focuses on worship, reverence and the recognition of Jesus Christ. The song’s live presentation reflects the central role that congregational singing plays in gospel music, where music becomes a way to express devotion and shared belief. For listeners who appreciate Christian worship music, the video offers another opportunity to connect with Ncebakazi Msomi’s musical ministry and the message behind the song.

The song draws its biblical inspiration from Matthew 21:9, a passage that describes the crowds welcoming Jesus into Jerusalem with cries of “Hosanna to the Son of David.” This moment holds an important place in the Christian faith because it reflects the people’s recognition of Jesus and their expression of praise. The word “Hosanna” is traditionally associated with a plea for salvation and has also become a familiar expression of worship in Christian music. By placing this scripture at the centre of the song, Msomi connects a biblical event with a contemporary gospel worship experience. The result is a song that encourages listeners to reflect on the meaning of praise, the identity of Jesus Christ and the place of worship in their own spiritual lives.

“Hosanna (Matthew 21:9) [Live]” forms part of The 37th Psalm (Live at Emperors Palace), an album released on 29 October 2025 under Grace and Mercy 2014 (Pty) Ltd. The project features 17 tracks and runs for more than two hours, presenting an extended collection of scripture-inspired gospel music. Rather than relying on a single theme throughout, the album explores different aspects of Christian belief, including God’s faithfulness, spiritual renewal, thanksgiving and the significance of Jesus Christ. Other songs include “Awujiki (Malachi 3:6) [Live],” “Umphefumulo/Manzi (John 4:14) [Live],” “Gcwalisa (Ezekiel 36:26-27) [Live]” and “Yebo nguYe (Matthew 27:45-54) [Live].” Together, these recordings establish a clear connection between biblical passages and musical expressions of faith.

The live setting at Emperors Palace is an important part of the album’s identity. Live gospel recordings can preserve the atmosphere of a performance, including the interaction between lead vocals, backing singers and instrumentalists. On “Hosanna (Matthew 21:9) [Live],” the credited musical contributors include a group of backing vocalists, a conductor, a drummer, a guitarist, a bassist, a saxophonist and a pipe organ player. These contributions reflect the collaborative work involved in creating a full gospel performance. The accompanying video gives audiences another way to engage with the song, bringing its live presentation into a visual experience that can be enjoyed beyond the original venue.

For Ncebakazi Msomi, the release also adds to a body of work that draws directly from scripture. The title The 37th Psalm points towards the biblical Psalms, a collection of writings associated with prayer, praise, trust and reflection on God’s character. Although “Hosanna” takes its specific reference from the Gospel of Matthew rather than Psalm 37, its inclusion within the album reflects the project’s broader engagement with biblical themes. This approach gives the music a clear spiritual foundation and offers listeners familiar points of connection with Christian teaching. It also allows audiences to explore the relationship between scripture and worship through songs that address different aspects of faith.

The release of the “Hosanna” video is relevant to gospel music audiences who value both musical performance and the message behind a song. For many listeners, worship music serves several purposes, from personal devotion and prayer to congregational singing and reflection during difficult moments. A scripture-based song can also encourage people to revisit the biblical passage that inspired it and consider its meaning in their daily lives. In this case, Matthew 21:9 provides a recognisable foundation for a message centred on Jesus and the expression of praise. The live presentation adds another dimension to that message by allowing viewers to experience the performance in a format suited to digital music audiences.

The album’s wider track listing further demonstrates Msomi’s interest in connecting gospel music with specific passages from the Bible. “Bulelani/Oh Give Thanks (Psalm 107:1) [Live]” draws on a passage associated with thanksgiving, while “Balekela kuYe/Abadiniweyo (Matthew 11:28) [Live]” refers to Jesus’ invitation to those who are weary and burdened. “Moy’ Oyingcwele/Siyabulela ngaWe (John 14:26) [Live]” also places its focus within a recognisable biblical framework. These titles show how scripture informs the project’s themes and gives individual songs their own points of emphasis. Within this collection, “Hosanna (Matthew 21:9) [Live]” stands as an expression of praise connected to the account of Jesus entering Jerusalem.

As the video reaches audiences, it offers an opportunity for existing fans to revisit a song from The 37th Psalm while introducing new listeners to Ncebakazi Msomi’s music. The visual format can help audiences engage with the performance in a different way from streaming the audio alone. Listeners interested in the song can also explore the full album to discover how its other tracks approach themes of faith, gratitude, salvation and spiritual growth. For those who enjoy South African gospel music, the project provides an example of a scripture-centred album presented through an extended live performance. Its focus on biblical inspiration gives the music a clear identity within the broader Christian worship landscape.

Ncebakazi Msomi’s release of the “Hosanna (Matthew 21:9) [Live]” video brings renewed attention to a song built around one of the Bible’s most recognisable expressions of praise. As part of The 37th Psalm (Live at Emperors Palace), the track contributes to a larger musical project that connects gospel performance with biblical reflection. Its message centres on the significance of Jesus Christ and the enduring role of worship in Christian life. By making the live performance available in video form, Msomi creates another opportunity for audiences to engage with the song and its spiritual meaning. The release reinforces the central idea behind the track, that praise is not simply a musical expression but also a meaningful response to faith.