South Africa’s gospel music scene welcomes a fresh and inspiring voice as Bongiwe Mngomezulu (30) introduces her debut EP, Uyangihola. The five-track project is a heartfelt testament to her unwavering faith, personal growth, and triumph over adversity. With an angelic and melodic voice, Mnbomezulu captivates listeners, delivering messages of hope, gratitude, and perseverance.
“The music is straight from my heart,”
she says.
“There was a lot of prayer involved in the making of this project. I had so much to say to God but also had to seek direction from Him. Each song carries its own unique emotion, feeling, and sound, offering something for everyone.”
A Story of Overcoming Darkness
Mngomezulu’s journey to releasing Uyangihola was not without its struggles. She opens up about overcoming depression and self-doubt, explaining how this project became a beacon of healing and gratitude.
“For a long time, I doubted myself and sank into depression. This project is my way of expressing gratitude and healing from that difficult period in my life,”
she shares.
With a sound that blends contemporary gospel with elements of soul, Afro-pop, R&B, and pop, Uyangihola represents her diverse musical influences and her deep-rooted passion for worship. Growing up in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, music has always been her calling. The youngest of five sisters, she credits her late mother for shaping her into the woman she is today.
The Meaning Behind Uyangihola
The title of the EP is deeply personal to Mngomezulu, inspired by one of the songs that resonates most with her.
“I genuinely believe God led me to this moment, and that’s what Uyangihola means to me,”
she explains.
More Than Music: A Passion for Healing
Outside of music, Mngomezulu is a beauty therapist by profession, a role she sees as complementary to her artistry.
“Feeling good and beautiful starts from the inside. My job is about healing through music on the inside and through beauty therapy on the outside. It all connects for me,”
she says.
A Childhood Rooted in Music
Mngomezulu’s musical journey began early, nurtured by a supportive family and a love for gospel. One of her fondest memories is being part of Craft of Worship, a previous project that solidified her love for making music.
Breaking Free and Embracing Faith
Reflecting on the challenges that inspired her EP, she acknowledges the battle against negative thoughts and self-imposed limitations.
“For the longest time, I lived in a box I created myself, filled with self-doubt and fear of failure. Overcoming that mindset was a challenge, but through working on myself, trusting God more, and pushing forward, I broke free. This project is a way of showing gratitude for what I have overcome and thanking God for guiding me through it all.”
With Uyangihola, Bongiwe Mngomezulu is not only making her mark as a gospel powerhouse but also inspiring others to hold on to faith, embrace their journeys, and never give up.