COMING gospel artists will get a chance to share the stage with some of South Africa’s biggest names when Gospel Music Spotlight comes to Joburg later in 2026
The concert, founded by gospel legend Pastor Jabu Hlongwane, will take place at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni on 3 October.
While fans can look forward to performances by established stars, the event’s biggest mission is discovering and developing fresh gospel talent.
Speaking to Daily Sun, Pastor Jabu said the platform was created to give gifted artists the recognition they deserve.
The heartbeat of this concept is exposing talent. We want to shine a spotlight on gifted people and create a professional platform with all the bells and whistles to make them shine. We want them to stand on their own and be seen for who they are.”
The singer said Mzansi is filled with talented musicians, but many don’t have the knowledge needed to build sustainable careers.
“South Africa has amazing talent, but it also has high unemployment. We want to help artists build careers, not just perform. That’s why we teach them about copyright, royalties, songwriting and the business side of music so they can earn an income even when they’re not on stage,” he said.
Pastor Jabu said many artists struggle because they rely solely on live performances.
“A lot of artists come into the industry without that knowledge. When performances dry up, they struggle. We want to equip them with the information to build sustainable careers and understand how their music can continue generating income,” he said.
As part of the initiative, auditions will be held in Joburg on 5 August to uncover new talent.
We’re not just looking for good singers. We’re looking for something fresh and authentic. We don’t want someone who sounds like another artist. We want people to be themselves because that’s what stands out.
“Sometimes what we’re looking for is still raw, but we can hear the potential. We can help develop the talent. I’d rather have someone come as themselves than tries to imitate another artist.
“When someone listens and says, ‘Who is that?’ That’s exactly the reaction we’re looking for. Authenticity is what makes an artist memorable,” he said.
The concert will feature gospel heavyweights including Khaya Mthethwa, Sindi Ntombela, Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Mthunzi Namba, Mpumi Mtsweni, Nozipho Phiri, Xolisa Kwinana, Kgethang Konese, Keke Phofolo, and Pastor Jabu himself.
He said the event is also about creating meaningful connections between industry veterans and emerging artists.
“This year’s show is about connecting the old with the new. We want established gospel artists to share the stage with up-and-coming talent so they can pour into them, mentor them and share their experiences.
It’s more than just performing. These young artists will have the opportunity to interact with people they look up to, ask questions, watch them perform up close and learn from them. Those are the moments they’ll carry with them long after the show.
