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Gospel vocalist Malusi Mbokazi is preparing to stage his first live recording event, The Revival with Malusi Mbokazi, in celebration of a decade spent building his solo career.
Taking place at the Durban ICC on September 5, the concert will trace key moments in Malusi’s musical journey. The lineup includes Khaya Mthethwa, Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Sbu Noah, Paradise Mdlalose, Sneziey Msomi and Ntokozo Ngongoma.
Although Malusi has worked in music for over two decades, he considers the event a tribute specifically to his 10 years as an independent artist. He said the participating performers were musicians he had hoped to collaborate with for a long time, selecting them for their stage presence and vocal strength. His ambition, he explained, is for the audience not only to enjoy the music but also to find healing through it.
Malusi first became widely known in 2001 as the lead vocalist of the celebrated gospel group Abanqobi. The group recorded popular tracks such as Likude Ikhaya and Simtholile Umesiya.
Despite the success he shared with his bandmates, a deeply difficult incident ultimately changed the direction of his career.
In 2014, Malusi lost his voice, and doctors warned him that he might never sing again. The frightening diagnosis prompted him to record his own album and commit to pursuing a solo path.
He has followed that path since 2015, using his music as a way to encourage healing. One song that holds particular significance for him is Ngize Nkosi, whose impact is tied to the personal testimony behind it.
Malusi recalled that a man once planned to take his own life but abandoned that decision after hearing the song. For the singer, the moment proved that music can protect and restore lives. Having experienced music’s healing power himself, he hopes his work can offer the same support to others.
