Ntethelelo "Ntethe" Mposwa, a renowned name in the gospel music industry, has been a lifelong devotee to the art, stemming from his upbringing in a musically inclined family. With two gospel albums to his credit, Mposwa is no stranger to the rhythms and depths of this genre.
However, the artist from Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape has embarked on a bold new journey, transitioning from his gospel roots to explore new musical territories. In a candid conversation with Sunday World, Mposwa expressed his initial fears about this significant shift.
"I was concerned about judgment and potentially losing my audience. It felt like risking my career, but I'm glad I took this step," he shared. His decision reflects a desire for artistic growth and exploration beyond the boundaries of traditional gospel music.
Mposwa's contributions to gospel have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his accolades, including a Gospel Crown award, the National Ingoma award, and recognition from the Eastern Cape arts and culture department for his role in uplifting the province's music scene.
"I've always been passionate about gospel, but I reached a point where I felt limited. I knew I was capable of more," he explained.
Expanding Musical Boundaries
Since 2017, Mposwa has been meticulously working on his transition, collaborating with various artists.
This journey culminated in the release of his first Afro single in 2022, marking a significant departure from his gospel origins. Beyond his own music, Mposwa has made substantial contributions to the industry as the CEO of Ntethe Music Records, a label under Universal Music Publishing Group.
He has played a pivotal role in nurturing talent across diverse genres and has penned songs for prominent artists like Berita and Amanda Black. Mposwa's upcoming album promises to be an eclectic mix of inspiration and innovation.
The album's second single, "Uyandonwabisa," showcases a fusion of Afro Trap and Afro Pop melodies, enriched by his powerful vocals and the unique tones of featured artist Naimah. This transition not only symbolizes Mposwa's artistic evolution but also his commitment to pushing the boundaries of music, offering a fresh perspective to his longstanding fans and new listeners alike.