Bishop Mashudu Ramatsekisa was born into a devout Christian family, where missing a church service was considered a sin. Growing up in Hamunzhedzi, outside Louis Trichardt, he was also drawn to the sounds of tshingondo music – a genre he grew to love deeply.
Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that one day he would lead a church and use tshingondo music as a tool to preach the gospel. But today, Ramatsekisa is not only an anointed spiritual healer, prophet and bishop at Gundo Apostolic Church in Munzhedzi – he is also a popular gospel musician who uses tshingondo to spread the word of God.
Since 2016, he has recorded seven albums. His debut, Murena Vha Kho Vhuya, marked his entry into the gospel music scene. All his albums are rich in biblical messages, which he uses to spread peace and spirituality. His latest release, Mupfumi na Lazaro Volume 7, was recorded at Worship House Studio in Shayandima and launched in January this year.
Known by his stage name Mabulayo, the bishop uses his music to address social issues. His songs warn against violence and the killing of fellow human beings. He also highlights the abuse of women and children, who are often the victims of brutal crimes. On one of his tracks, Vhareili, he cautions motorists about reckless and negligent driving, which continues to claim lives on South Africa's roads.
Asked how tshingondo music had found its way into the church, Bishop Ramatsekisa said his love for the genre had begun at an early age. "As a bishop, my task is to heal, pray and preach to the people. I do preach in church, but I felt I was not doing enough in terms of reaching a wider audience. Music is a very powerful medium – it allows me to connect with many people at once. Tshingondo is very popular, and through it, I can reach far and wide and bring many into the fold of God," he said.
His musical journey began in the church choir. It was there that he met the acclaimed tshingondo artist Whitey Dama, who helped him record his first album – and the rest, as they say, is history.
His new album will be available on all digital music platforms from next week. For now, it can be obtained directly by contacting him on 082 545 4611.