MBABANE – Eswatini’s gospel music industry is celebrating a major achievement after acclaimed songwriter and recording artist Phetsile Masilela saw her powerful composition, “Umus’ongaka,” become one of the standout moments at the Spirit of Praise 12 Live Recording held at the sold-out SunBet Arena in Pretoria on Saturday.
The song, performed by celebrated South African gospel minister Mpumi Mtsweni, captivated thousands of worshippers with its heartfelt message, spiritual depth and moving delivery. The performance quickly emerged as one of the evening’s most memorable highlights, further cementing the impact of authentic African gospel music on the continent’s biggest stages.
While Masilela was not the performer on the night, the inclusion of her original composition on one of Africa’s most influential gospel platforms marks a significant milestone in her career as a songwriter, composer and recording artist. It also serves as recognition of the vital role songwriters play in creating music that resonates across generations and borders.
As the original writer and composer of “Umus’ongaka,” Masilela receives full recognition for the song’s authorship and creative ownership, reinforcing the importance of celebrating the individuals whose compositions become the foundation of unforgettable worship experiences.
The achievement also places Eswatini firmly on the continental gospel map, showcasing the Kingdom’s growing reputation for producing exceptional musical talent and inspiring original compositions. It highlights the country’s ability to create music that transcends geographical boundaries while carrying a message of faith, hope and worship.
For Masilela, the success of “Umus’ongaka” at Spirit of Praise 12 is expected to open new doors within the gospel music industry, creating opportunities for collaborations, partnerships and greater international exposure.
The milestone is not only a personal victory for the artist but also a proud moment for Eswatini’s music industry, reflecting the country’s growing influence in African gospel music and the importance of recognising and protecting original creative works.
As gospel music lovers eagerly await the official release of Spirit of Praise 12, “Umus’ongaka” has already established itself as one of the project’s defining songs, celebrating Phetsile Masilela’s exceptional songwriting talent while elevating Eswatini’s presence on Africa’s gospel music stage.
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