Whether you like gospel music or not, the Crown Gospel Awards are proving to be one of the best award ceremonies to look forward to in South Africa. For a concept that only started a few years ago, the Crowns make older established award shows like the South African Music Awards look like amateur hour.
Since we have already mentioned the nominees in the past, it would probably be interesting to fans of the show to talk about the performances on the night. The show’s organisers have now released the list of entertainers who will perform at the show.
The first person many people will like to see is Idols SA winner Khaya Mthethwa who, despite winning the competition, still has deep roots in gospel music. Also, being from Durban, he is sure to enjoy singing in front of his home fans as the Crown Gospel Music Awards have made a home in Durban.
Although he is not from Durban, there is a strong chance that Sipho Makhabane will be a hit once he steps on the stage.
Given that he recently released an album after years of staying away from the studio, his fans will be curious to know what the “Big Fish” has in mind.
Veteran gospel musician Rebecca Malope (pictured) will also be present. Any musician, singer or band worth their salt know it is unwise to perform after Malope because she is the ultimate showstopper.
Some call her performance over the top, but others feel she acts out her lyrics to illustrate what she is talking, or if you may, singing about.
Still on dramatic performances, Solly Mahlangu will also be coming to the show with some memorable performances. He may not roll over the floor like Malope, but he surely knows how to keep a crowd pumped up.
But if your thing is soulful music then Ntokozo Mbatha is your choice for the night. She has just released an album and chances are she will sing a few tracks off that album.
To add a nice touch to the calibre of performances, Sivuthevuthe the poet will give us some inspiring recited verses.
Voting is still open and gospel music lovers are encouraged to vote in the categories in which they have a voice. The categories include Best Gospel Song, Best Amazion, Best Gospel Artist and Best Community Radio Show.
To vote, SMS NAME OF THE ARTIST/SHOW and CATEGORY to 34069 (each SMS costs R1.50), or call 084 198 3292. The rest of the cate- gories are presided over by a panel of judges.
If you haven’t cast your vote yet, then you have until Friday before all the voting channels close.
• Tickets to the show are still available at Computicket and they range between R250 and R600. Find out which of the tickets will give you access to the after party. The award ceremony will be held at Durban’s ICC venue this Sunday.