The gospel industry's newest kid on the block, Grace Mulaudzi, is now a decorated artist as her debut single, Takuwa Yehova, was crowned Best Gospel Hit at the fourth annual Limpopo Music Awards (LIMA) that was held at Meropa Casino Hotel last Saturday night.
The single saw stiff competition from Winnie Mashaba's Lengeloi Laka, Lufuno Dagada's A si muloro, Ke ngwana wa sione by City Modiba, Ke nna yo by Bubu Nxumalo as well as A vha shanduki by fellow stable mate Lufuno Phalandwa.
Mulaudzi performed in true spirit-filled fashion and gospel lovers could not resist singing along. The superb rendition of her song created great anticipation for the coveted prize and when they finally announced her as the winner, a befitting standing ovation accompanied her as she ascended the stage to collect her trophy.
Takuwa Yehova is Mulaudzi's first single and her first time performing at an award ceremony. Donned in her glamorous gold dress, she sent emotional words of gratitude to her fans and family members for voting for her. She also reserved special thanks for her husband, Thanganedzo Mulaudzi, and her manager, Robert Netshiunda, the executive director of Mukurob Music, for believing in her and kick-starting her musical career.
"I still can't believe that I am standing here receiving an award," she said. "Just a year ago, when we recorded the song, I had told myself that I would take baby steps and see how far I could go, but surely God had bigger plans for me. The way the public received Takuwa Yehova was overwhelming, and I do not take people's love for granted. I thank the Lord for entrusting me with the ministry of worship."
Mulaudzi revealed that plans were afoot to celebrate her historic victory with her supporters at a mother of all shows, whose details she was reluctant to divulge yet. Netshiunda confirmed that they were working on a five-song extended play (EP) for Mulaudzi which would be released in the first half of 2022. Including this award, Mukurob Music has won 11 awards in four years.