SECURITY guard LUNGILE Mkhuzo (48) is seeing his childhood dreams come to pass after the release of his debut gospel album, Ithembalami.
The 11-track album is a soul-stirring record that comprises different messages on salvation, God’s grace and healing.
The album carries a message about praising God in whatever situation people find themselves in, and acknowledging His presence even when they face trials. Lungile, who works for GP Security in Port Edward in KZN, developed a passion to sing from a very young age, ministering in church choirs and events.
Tracing his bumpy music journey, Lungile said he went through so many hurdles to fulfil his dream of being a recording gospel artist.
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“I used to minister at church in the choir and at events. I always wanted to be a full-time gospel artist but there were no opportunities for me to pursue that dream. I suffered ridicule and discouragement from many people I shared my dream to. They told me it was impossible for a security guard to become a recording artist.
“I used all my savings as a security guard to record my album,” the single father of two, told SunBuzz. Lungile, who still ministers with his music at events and church services when he is off duty, said Ithembalami speaks to his spiritual yearning as he endured painful personal challenges.
He said the title was inspired by his tough upbringing after he lost both parents at a very young age, leaving him to fend for himself.
“It’s by God’s grace that I survived all those years of being an orphan. All my relatives abandoned me when my parents died. I became a beggar and I was treated as a slave by some people.
“The only thing that kept me going through my trials and tribulations was the word of God.”
Lungile said all the songs in his album are meant to offer strength and encouragement.
“Ithembalami acknowledges God’s presence even when you’re in trials. It’s an uplifting album. The songs were all carefully chosen to be both a celebration, but offer peace of mind.”
Lungile said he hopes the album will give strength and encouragement to those in need.
“My wish and prayer is that the album would make a major impact in the lives of many who need comfort and hope in their life trials and tribulations. I hope the songs will remind them about the One who can change any situation.”
