Latest news with #MusaYende
News24
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News24
5 minutes with contemporary gospel artist Musa Yende
Musa Yende has been adding her angelic voice to the gospel music scene since 2011, giving her backing vocals for famed artists like Benjamin Dube and Dr Tumi. Musa is now spreading her wings as a solo vocalist, launching her latest single uMelusi and debut EP Sustained by Grace, while staying true to her message of love, acceptance and faith through her spirituality. The 31-year-old songstress is currently gearing up for a one-of-a-kind live experience with famed artists like Ghanaian gospel singer Grace Charles and South African musicians Khaya Mthethwa and Brendan Praise, with many looking forward to tuning into their graceful hymns of worship. View this post on Instagram A post shared by musayende (@musayende_) Get to know more about Musa and the inspirations behind her music as we catch up with the songbird. Your new single uMelusi is both powerful and deeply emotional. What message were you hoping to convey through this song? 'The message I was trying to convey was really just a reminder that the one who has promised is faithful. A great shepherd who leads us with kindness and consistency until we get to where he wants us to be. A great shepherd who's goodness and mercy follows us all the days of our lives.' You've performed alongside gospel legends like Pastor Benjamin Dube and Dr. Tumi. How have those experiences shaped your journey as a solo artist? 'Conversations, prayers, rehearsals and even quiet moments back stage with them often fed my spirit. They carried memory than music - they carried wisdom. I learnt that your spiritual life must lead your stage life.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by musayende (@musayende_) You're known for blending traditional gospel with contemporary sounds. What inspires you to push the boundaries of the genre while staying rooted in faith? 'Honestly what really pushed me was the desire to create music that my grandmother would worship to, but that my younger sister could also connect with. But more than anything it was the Holy Spirit that gave me permission to.' The response to uMelusi has been overwhelming. How does it feel to see such anticipation building ahead of your live EP performance? 'The response has been so incredible and heartwarming. I'm so glad I said yes to doing it for God. The response has been proof that I'm in the right path and there's so many people I get to lead to Christ and that's totally worth it.' Having toured internationally and worked as a backing vocalist, what lessons or insights are you bringing into this new chapter of your career as a front-line artist? 'One of the biggest lessons I'm bringing it not this new season is that serving prepares you for leading! Also traveling and singing behind incredible artists taught me value of humility, discipline and spiritual sensitivity. You learn to listen - not just musically but spiritually. You learn that what happens off stage matters just as much as what happened off stage.'
IOL News
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Musa Yende debuts with 'Sustained by Grace', heralding a new era in South African gospel music
Born with a gift that she could not keep to herself, Musa Yende's foray into music emerged as a natural expression of her faith. Image: Supplied South African gospel artist Musa Yende is stepping into the spotlight with the release of her highly anticipated debut EP, 'Sustained by Grace'. This seven-track offering represents a vital milestone for the artist, showcasing her as not only a vocalist of rare skill but as a dynamic worship leader and storyteller deeply rooted in grace and intention. Born and raised in Spruitview on the East Rand, Yende's musical journey began early when she was singing in church. After graduating high school, she pursued formal studies in music, majoring in jazz, an influence that has undoubtedly shaped the fluidity and control in her voice today. Before stepping into the limelight as a solo artist, Yende honed her craft working behind the scenes, providing backing vocals for gospel luminaries such as Dr Tumi and Benjamin Dube, and embarking on projects overseas. This dedication and behind-the-scenes work have laid the groundwork for her current breakthrough, as she stands centre stage ready to share her profound talent with the world. 'Sustained by Grace' is more than just an album; it is a sonic and spiritual experience that has been carefully curated and prayerfully crafted. Alongside her producer Joseph Makola, Yende handpicked every track, instrumentalist, and harmony. The result is a well-balanced offering that beautifully blends technical brilliance with deep emotional resonance. It is a personal testimony wrapped in melody, detailing her heartfelt encounters with the sustaining power of God. The EP's striking cover art further establishes Yende's brand, paying homage to her signature blue hair - a bold statement of her individuality. This visual reflection encapsulates her personality: calm and thoughtful, yet unafraid to stand out in a crowded industry. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The EP's striking cover art further establishes Yende's brand, paying homage to her signature blue hair - a bold statement of her individuality. Image: Supplied The EP opens with a powerful track, 'Angesabi Lutho', a bold proclamation that exudes confidence in God's power. Featuring dynamic vocal layers and a captivating melodic journey that crescendos with conviction, the song reassures listeners that faith can banish fear. This uplifting message sets the tone for the entire EP, which is imbued with resilience and empowerment. One of the standout tracks is 'uMelusi', the first single released from the EP earlier this year. This song, meaning 'The Shepherd', speaks to God's unwavering care and guidance - an ode to His shepherding presence in times of uncertainty. Yende's unique ability to blend theological depth with contemporary musicality shines through, making 'uMelusi' not only a worship anthem but also a soothing balm for those navigating life's challenges. Following this powerful track is the 'uMelusi Prayer', a touching spoken-word interlude that deepens the message of divine guidance while showcasing Yende's heartfelt devotion to her ministry. The EP also boasts an impressive collaboration with beloved gospel artist Brenden Praise on the track 'Amandla Amasha'. Despite his mainstream success, Praise has long regarded Yende as one of South Africa's most talented gospel vocalists, often expressing admiration for her artistry. Their musical partnership has been carefully nurtured over several collaborations, and on 'Amandla Amasha', the duo takes their synergy to new heights. The track celebrates the renewing strength found in God, further enriching the listening experience for fans. Born with a gift that she could not keep to herself, Musa Yende's foray into music emerged as a natural expression of her faith. Image: Supplied Born with a gift that she could not keep to herself, Yende's foray into music emerged as a natural expression of her faith. "God gave me a gift, a gift that I couldn't keep to myself. So it became a way of expressing my faith, healing, and reaching people in ways words couldn't," she explained. This unwavering commitment to her craft is evident in the compelling narratives that are woven into each track on the EP. Musically, Yende drew inspiration from various artists who shaped her sound and defined her artistry. Icons such as Jazmine Sullivan, India Arie, Donnie McClurkin, and Le'Andria Johnson have had a profound influence on her. "I've been influenced by a lot of people," she said, acknowledging the diverse musical landscape that has contributed to her unique style. The creative journey for "Sustained by Grace" began in mid-2024, as Yende set out to craft songs that would resonate with listeners on a spiritual level. "Just to create music that carried hope and restoration," she said, reflecting on her motivation. Each song stands as a testament to moments of prayer and divine strength encountered during challenging times. The title of the EP itself holds significant meaning for Yende. "Sustained by Grace" serves as a touching reminder that it is not through human strength that we endure hardships, but through divine grace. The title encapsulates every difficult moment she faced and the resilience garnered from faith. "It's about surviving seasons we didn't feel ready for, overcoming things we didn't think we could, and still standing - not because we had it all together, but because His grace kept showing up,' she reflected. With her music, Yende has a clear vision: to lead hearts back to God. "If one soul is encouraged, restored, or drawn closer to Jesus, the mission is fulfilled,' she elaborated, emphasising the impact she wishes her songs to have on her audience. Looking ahead, Yende is not just focused on her musical career but is also eyeing business ventures for 2025. "I want to have a clothing range, a hair business, and just spread God's message across the continent,' she shared, showcasing her ambition to make a broader impact beyond music. With her heart set on making an impact, Yende's journey has only just begun.
TimesLIVE
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Gospel singer Musa Yende taking centre stage as she releases an EP
From backing vocalist to taking the lead, Musa Yende is gearing up for the release of her EP Sustained by Grace on May 16 after she recently released her singles uMelusi and Angesabi Lutho. The Katlehong-born gospel singer said the EP symbolises a new chapter in her life marked by gratitude. Having overcome many obstacles that have strengthened her faith, the project represents growth and an expression of faith. 'I sing about gratitude because it's a reflection of the journey I've walked. Grateful for the growth that came through pain and for the grace that carried me when I wanted to give up on myself and my music. I've learned that even through all the struggles, there's always something to be grateful for', she said. The body of work consists of worship songs uMelusi, Amandla Amasha, Angesabi Lutho, Awudeli Kimi, The Gospel Song and No Other God. Musa has graced stages alongside gospel giants Pastor Benjamin Dube and Dr Tumi. Her journey as a gospel artist has been marked by a fearless and nonconformist approach to the genre, blending heartfelt spirituality with contemporary sounds. Her music infuses jazz, gospel and contemporary genres with a sound aimed at providing spiritual fulfilment. 'The songs in Sustained by Grace remind listeners of God's grace and goodness in everything, all of which are designed to uplift, inspire and encourage listeners', she said.
