Nontokozo Mkhize’s Journey: From Backing Vocalist to Gospel Powerhouse

Gospel singer, songwriter and performer Nontokozo Mkhize is emerging as one of South Africa’s most spiritually grounded voices, blending faith-driven music with mainstream appeal. At 27, the KwaZulu-Natal artist has steadily built a career that combines heartfelt worship, relatable storytelling, and wide-reaching collaborations.

Mkhize’s journey began behind the scenes, providing backing vocals for established musicians. She recalls those early years as essential to her growth, giving her the experience and connections that would later define her career. “Although I used to be behind the scenes, I always knew that the main stage is where I belonged,” she shared, noting that her breakthrough came in 2023.

Her career took a notable leap with the success of the song Lu Strong, a collaboration with Nomfundo Moh, which helped her gain mainstream recognition. This was followed by the release of Esandleni, a project that solidified her presence in the gospel music scene. Despite rising fame, Mkhize emphasizes that her focus remains on the art, rather than celebrity. “Being well-known comes with a price, and I know it. I’ve always made it clear that I’m all about the art more than anything,” she said.

Mkhize shares her journey with her younger sister, singer Naledi Aphiwe. While they grew up in the same household, they have different fathers, with an eight-year age gap that positioned Nontokozo as a mentor. “We share the same voice…there’s no way people can miss that,” she said. The sisters experienced a challenging period following the loss of their mother in 2022, but both have found growth and success in their respective careers, with Nontokozo focusing on gospel and Naledi on Afro-pop and R&B.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Mkhize credits her family and early church involvement with shaping her musical and spiritual perspective. She hopes her work will expand the reach of gospel music beyond traditional settings. “I want to change how gospel music is received by the masses. It shouldn’t be just about church or biblical matters, but a way of addressing issues affecting many people in the world,” she explained.

Through her collaborations, performances, and faith-driven approach, Nontokozo Mkhize continues to inspire audiences across South Africa. Her music reflects both spiritual depth and cultural relevance, offering a new perspective on gospel music that resonates with believers and secular listeners alike.

As she navigates fame, creativity, and ministry, Mkhize remains committed to her purpose: to create music that uplifts, challenges, and connects people to faith in meaningful ways.