Gospel artist Lusanda Beja will be launching his third studio album, A New Thing, at the Abbotsford Christian Centre on August 20.
The Western Cape-born musician, now a prominent voice in SA’s gospel scene, described the release as a fresh chapter in his career.
Known for his deep, soulful voice and heartfelt delivery, Beja draws much of his inspiration from his Christian upbringing.
“I am inspired by a lot of things, starting with my family — both my maternal and paternal grandparents were pastors,” he said.
“My mom was the first praise and worship leader I saw, and my dad used to be an instrumentalist.”
Beja rose to prominence more than a decade ago after appearing on SABC2’s I Want To Sing Gospel, and later competing in Idols SA in 2016, where he reached the Top 16.
His debut album, The Revelation of Grace, was released in 2013, followed by his acclaimed Jesu Ulidwala album in 2019.
When a person listens to the gospel, they must be transformed. I am trying to bring it back to the heart of what it is
With A New Thing, Beja says he wants to take gospel “back to its core” and point people towards faith.
“When a person listens to the gospel, they must be transformed. I am trying to bring it back to the heart of what it is.”
The 15-track album, recorded live in March, includes collaborations with Siseko Mfaca, Dumi Mkokstad and Beja’s mother, gospel icon Dideka Beja.
Three singles — Uyingcwele, Umbhedesho and God Will Never Fail — have already been released.
Beja counts Joyous Celebration, Nqubeko Mbatha, Khaya Mthethwa and Dumi Mkokstad among his musical inspirations.
“We may all be in the same genre, but our ways of expressing it are different — and that inspires me,” he said.
His provincial tour in 2024 cemented East London as a special city for the artist.
“It’s my second home. The love and energy here are unmatched — people travelled from Mthatha, Gqeberha, Queenstown [Komani] and beyond.”
Ahead of the launch, Beja hosted auditions to find three local backing vocalists.
“I wanted to give East London singers a chance to share my platform.
“We’ve found three incredible voices, and they’ll be joining me on the night.”
Tickets are available from Computicket, Webtickets and Pick n Pay.
Daily Dispatch
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