Ntokozo Princess Jodwana Steps into Her Spotlight with Soul-Stirring Single ‘Ngcwele Jesu’

Ntokozo Princess Jodwana is poised to release her powerful new single, Ngcwele Jesu, on 27 March 2026, marking a defining moment in her journey as an independent gospel artist. The song is a deeply spiritual offering, born from a profound moment during the creation of her forthcoming album, The Throne of Grace. With heartfelt conviction, it speaks to both personal devotion and a universal call to worship.

A dynamic and versatile musician, Ntokozo began her musical journey at just 13 as a backing vocalist for local artists in her community, laying the foundation for her artistry. She later refined her craft at the Music Academy of Gautengunder the late Dr Johnny Mekoa, where she studied music and broadcasting engineering, strengthening both her vocal and technical skills. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with acclaimed musicians including Themba Mkhize, Khaya Mahlangu, Letta Mbulu, Bongani Radebe, Benjamin Dube, Sipho Ngwenya, and Collen Maluleke, and has worked with artists across borders.

Her contributions to leading gospel ensembles such as Women in Praise and Spirit of Praise have seen her feature in memorable live recordings and performances that resonated nationwide. Now stepping fully into her own as a solo artist, Ntokozo embraces the transition from backing vocalist to front-stage performer—a journey that challenged her to discover her unique sound and identity while also affirming her calling.

Born in Kwa-Thema and raised in Duduza by her grandparents in a devout Christian household, Ntokozo’s musical talent emerged early. She began singing in church at 11, drawing inspiration from gospel legends and nurturing her passion for ministry through music. Her upbringing, combined with years of experience and formal training, has shaped her authentic and spiritually grounded approach to artistry.

“I was raised by my grandparents, Gogo and Mkhulu Mokoena, in Duduza. I grew up in a warm, loving Christian family with my parents, Mr and Mrs Ndaba. I started singing in church when my uncle Leon played piano, introducing me to gospel music from artists like Cece Winans and Joyous Celebration,” she recalls.

“I remember being shy at school, but one day at the Assembly Hall, my teacher asked me to sing. I didn’t know what came over me, but I sang—and everyone clapped! From that day, I never stopped.”

Ngcwele Jesu came to Ntokozo through a friend during her album preparations and quickly became a standout track after pre-production with her music director. After three years of anticipation, she describes its release as a moment of divine timing, filled with gratitude and renewed purpose.

Now thriving as an independent artist, vocal coach, presenter, and programme director, Ntokozo continues to broaden her creative footprint. With Ngcwele Jesu, listeners can expect a message of revival and a reminder that God remains at the centre of all things. The single marks the first offering from her upcoming album, with national and international tours planned, alongside more music that reflects her growth, faith, and evolving artistry.

TEA WITH NTOKOZO PRINCESS JODWANA

1. You started your journey in music at just 13 years old—how does this new release reflect your growth as an artist since those early days?
Growing up I used to love Gospel ministers and I looked up to them and loved how they conducted themselves and Preaching about Christ through music. This has shaped the way I would present myself. Gospel music was my way of expressing myself. I knew that one day I would be the one holding that microphone and preaching the good news (gospel) to the world.

2. Having worked with legends like Themba Mkhize and Benjamin Dube, what lessons have stayed with you and influenced this new project?
 I have learned that you need to have a strong character and never look down on yourself. That you don’t have to copy anyone else for you to be good but just be yourself and don’t try to fit in.

3. Can you take us behind the scenes of the creative process for this single—how did it come together from idea to final recording?
 As we were preparing for the Album “The Throne of Grace” Hloni my friend sent me the song via voice message, I then presented it to my then Music director Judah Ngwenya he also liked the song. We did the pre-production so that we could share it with the whole band and singers. Then the song made it to the Album, hearing how it sounded I got very excited and I couldn’t wait to perform it.

4. As someone who has been part of powerful ensembles like Women in Praise and Spirit of Praise, how does stepping out as an independent artist shape your sound and message?
Being part of the group Woman in Praise and Spirit of Praise was one a blessing. I was a backing vocalist and  I was given an opportunity to present myself as an artist that was a huge step to take because I had to find myself and to know the Sound I would love people to know me with.

5. Your upcoming project The Throne of Grace has been highly anticipated—how does this new single connect to that body of work?
I’m happy to say that after three years of waiting the Lord has remembered me . And I’m so thankful and grateful to say that ‘Ngcwele Jesu’ is the 1st song that we decided to release from the album.

6. You wear many hats: singer, presenter, MC, and vocal coach—how do these roles influence the way you approach your music?
I studied music and performing arts that was when I learned that arts is broad so that’s when I challenged myself that I needed to know more about my hidden talents , this has grew my Confidence in music and in associating myself with the Greats.

7. What message or emotion do you hope listeners will take away when they hear this new single for the first time?
I hope that listeners will be revived and know that god is at the centre of it all.

8. The gospel and music landscape is constantly evolving—how do you stay authentic while still pushing creative boundaries?
I believe in growth and that I need to push myself as times are changing I also need to evolve with time.

9. Looking ahead, what can your fans expect next from you after this release, and how do you envision the next chapter of your career?
After the release my fans can expect my full album,National tours , International tours and more of making good music.