05-05-2025
Rebecca Malope's 40-album career honored at Metro FM Awards
It was a night of glitz and glamour at Mbombela stadium in Mpumalanga.
Stars came out for the METRO FM Music Awards 2025 to celebrate the contribution made by South African musicians and entertainers.
Themed 'Crowning Greatness', the event saw stars 'receive their flowers.'
Gospel legend Dr. Rebecca Malope (58) was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award together with Kwaito artists, TKZee.
'God is good!' she told Drum, kissing her trophy. 'I am truly honoured.'
She started making music in 1984, at 16 years old. She has more than 40 albums under her belt.
The Angingedwa singer says she does not take any form of recognition for granted and she appreciates every award as it shows through the years it has touched lives.
Read more | Dr Rebecca Malope on life after retirement and her advice to upcoming artists
'I am blessed to still be around in 2025 when many of my peers have passed. I am honored that also my music has lived through the different generations, she adds.
'Staying relevant is not something one forces. But when your music has a message - it will last a lifetime.'
Almost in tears, Sis Ribz as she is affectionately known by her fans, says it has not been an easy journey.
'The music business is tough emotionally and financially. But we do it for the love.'
A few weeks ago, she was criticised on social media after an old video of her performing alongside controversial pastor Sheperd Bushiri went viral.
Read more | Rebeca Malope stunned by her statue – 'When I was called on stage, I thought I was getting flowers'
'I am used to criticism. I am human, it hurts at times but I know who I am. I have never gone to his church, I was booked to perform at an event and he happened to be open to the guests."
Sis Ribz concludes that her music does not discriminate.
'Gospel music is for everyone, and it does not discriminate or choose who it heals. I am just hoping my music lives for more generations and continues to heal people.'
