Gospel Artist Bongani Mkancha Shares His Journey of Faith and Music
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In a heartfelt interview on "Just Gospel" radio, gospel artist Bongani Mkancha opened up about his spiritual journey, music career, and life lessons.
Born and raised in Pumalanga in the villages of Bush Park Ridge, Mkancha grew up in a Christian household. However, he emphasized that being born into a Christian family doesn't automatically make one a Christian. He distinctly remembers accepting Christ in 2008, which marked the beginning of his personal relationship with God.
Mkancha shared a powerful testimony about a difficult period following his first marriage, which ended after just six months. During this challenging time, he experienced suicidal thoughts while driving. In what he describes as divine intervention, a construction sign flew and hit his windscreen—a literal "stop" sign that he interpreted as God telling him to stop his destructive thoughts.
Now in his second marriage with three sons—Kushula, Mio, and Shilovelo—Mkancha expressed deep gratitude for his wife Michelle, whom he described as "the strength of my pillar" and a constant support through his music ministry.
Regarding his music career, Mkancha recalled how it began in the Assemblies of God church choir. A pastor once told him that while his voice might not be conventionally beautiful, it carried a unique anointing to touch people. This insight shaped his approach to music ministry, focusing on glorifying God rather than entertaining people.
Mkancha also discussed the challenges of being a gospel artist, including facing harsh judgment, particularly after his divorce. He shared how some churches canceled his invitations to minister, believing he could no longer be an effective witness. Despite these challenges, he learned to focus on his standing with God rather than people's opinions.
His perseverance has paid off. In April 2023, he held his first live recording with several notable artists. Last year, he won an SABC award for Best Contemporary Song. His music now reaches as far as Mozambique.
The interview concluded with Mkancha offering advice to young people, encouraging them to invest in themselves through education and business ventures while they still have the energy and freedom of youth. Drawing from his own experience managing seven businesses, he emphasized the importance of building multiple income streams early in life.
Born and raised in Pumalanga in the villages of Bush Park Ridge, Mkancha grew up in a Christian household. However, he emphasized that being born into a Christian family doesn't automatically make one a Christian. He distinctly remembers accepting Christ in 2008, which marked the beginning of his personal relationship with God.
Mkancha shared a powerful testimony about a difficult period following his first marriage, which ended after just six months. During this challenging time, he experienced suicidal thoughts while driving. In what he describes as divine intervention, a construction sign flew and hit his windscreen—a literal "stop" sign that he interpreted as God telling him to stop his destructive thoughts.
Now in his second marriage with three sons—Kushula, Mio, and Shilovelo—Mkancha expressed deep gratitude for his wife Michelle, whom he described as "the strength of my pillar" and a constant support through his music ministry.
Regarding his music career, Mkancha recalled how it began in the Assemblies of God church choir. A pastor once told him that while his voice might not be conventionally beautiful, it carried a unique anointing to touch people. This insight shaped his approach to music ministry, focusing on glorifying God rather than entertaining people.
Mkancha also discussed the challenges of being a gospel artist, including facing harsh judgment, particularly after his divorce. He shared how some churches canceled his invitations to minister, believing he could no longer be an effective witness. Despite these challenges, he learned to focus on his standing with God rather than people's opinions.
His perseverance has paid off. In April 2023, he held his first live recording with several notable artists. Last year, he won an SABC award for Best Contemporary Song. His music now reaches as far as Mozambique.
The interview concluded with Mkancha offering advice to young people, encouraging them to invest in themselves through education and business ventures while they still have the energy and freedom of youth. Drawing from his own experience managing seven businesses, he emphasized the importance of building multiple income streams early in life.