Gospel music in South Africa is riding a profound wave on streaming platforms, blending timeless hymns, soulful choir performances, and contemporary worship to dominate listener habits — especially around spiritually significant seasons like Easter. Recent data from Spotify and local music outlets offers insight into which gospel songs are currently resonating most with South African audiences.
Here’s a look at ten gospel songs that have surged in streams across South Africa in 2025:
1. Ndenzel’ Uncedo (Hymn 377) – Joyous Celebration
This powerful live hymn continues to anchor Joyous Celebration’s influence. According to Spotify, their performances of “Ndenzel’ Uncedo” racked up millions of streams, making it one of their most listened-to tracks. Spotify+2Shazam+2
The song’s live energy and deep, spiritual lyricism have made it a perennial favorite.
2. Yesu Wena UnguMhlobo – Joyous Celebration
Another staple from Joyous Celebration’s catalog, “Yesu Wena UnguMhlobo” (Live) remains a top performer, especially on curated gospel playlists. Music In Africa+2Spotify+2
3. Hallelujah Nkateko (Lihle’s Version) – Joyous Celebration
This rendition has struck a chord with listeners, especially around times of worship and reflection. It featured prominently on gospel streaming charts as Easter approached. Music In Africa+1
4. Umbhedesho (Live) – Joyous Celebration
A deeply spiritual track performed live by the choir, “Umbhedesho” has enjoyed renewed popularity among South African listeners, helping Joyous Celebration secure multiple top-10 spots on gospel charts. Music In Africa
5. Thath’Indawo (Live) – Spirit of Praise feat. Mpumi Mtsweni
Spirit of Praise’s live track featuring Mpumi Mtsweni has become a streaming juggernaut. According to reports, it remains among the most streamed in South Africa. Pulse Nigeria+1
The song’s plea for divine space and positioning (“Take your place, Jesus”) resonates powerfully with worshippers. Shazam+1
6. Ungukuphila – Xolly Mncwango
Xolly Mncwango’s “Ungukuphila” (which roughly translates to “You are life”) has sustained high streaming numbers, beloved for its worshipful tone and emotive delivery. Spotify+1
7. Esandleni – Nontokozo Mkhize
Emerging gospel artist Nontokozo Mkhize’s “Esandleni” has made waves — at one point debuting at #1 on Spotify’s South African gospel chart. Wikipedia
Her rise underscores a generational shift in gospel consumption.
8. Moy’ Oyingcwele (Live) – Spirit of Praise feat. Ayanda Ntanzi
This live worship anthem continues to attract strong streaming figures, especially on devotional and worship-focused playlists. Zambian Gospel
9. Ulwandle – Dumi Mkokstad
A more contemporary produced gospel song, “Ulwandle” by Dumi Mkokstad features on top gospel charts in South Africa, according to iTunes Christian & Gospel rankings. Zambian Gospel
Its mix of modern instrumentation and spiritual lyricism appeals to both younger and older audiences.
10. Goodness of God (Live) – CeCe Winans
Although CeCe Winans is international, her live version of “Goodness of God” appears on South African gospel streaming charts, signaling strong local consumption. Zambian Gospel
Why This Matters
- Streaming is shifting gospel consumption. The surge in gospel streaming — particularly during Easter — shows how digital platforms have become central to how South Africans engage with faith-based music. Music In Africa
- Choirs are still foundational. Traditional gospel choirs like Joyous Celebration and Spirit of Praise dominate a sizable portion of the top tracks, proving that live choir performances continue to resonate strongly.
- New voices are emerging. Artists like Nontokozo Mkhize are breaking through, bridging classic worship with contemporary appeal.
- Global gospel has local reach. Even globally recognized gospel artists like CeCe Winans make an impact in the South African streaming footprint.
What to Watch Next
- Will more live worship recordings join the top charts, especially around key religious seasons?
- How will emerging South African gospel artists continue to climb as streaming becomes the dominant mode of consumption?
- Will worship collectives and choirs experiment further with digital-first releases (live albums, exclusive streaming content) to maintain their chart dominance?