GOSPEL singer Khulekani Chili has been nominated in eight categories in the Independent National Gospel Music Awards (Ingomas).
And he is over the moon as he has faced hardships where he lost everything and his career almost went down the drain.
Khulekani said he even ended up living in a shack in Jeppestown in Joburg for almost eight years.
“This was the worst moment of my life. I lost everything, including two houses in Alberton and Benoni in Ekurhuleni. I also lost two cars, a Corsa Lite and Golf 7. I lost my family and friends,” he said.
Khulekani described his past situation as a test from God. He said he learnt to remain calm and be obedient even during his success.
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“I was big-headed and thought everything was from my power. I ended up doing drugs and that’s where my demise began. Cocaine is evil. It made me lose everything. When I was high, I would think I am the only fish in the sea,” he said.
Through all that, Khulekani was delighted he could sing again.
The Ngenzeni hitmaker said he has not tasted alcohol for three years. “God has given me a second chance in life and these are the rewards,” he said.
Khulekani said he is using his experience to motivate others. He visits schools addressing issues of drugs with the help of Joburg-based Tranquility Rehab Centre.
He warned artists who use drugs that it’s fun at first, but the second stage is pain and misery. He also appealed to young people to avoid alcohol and drugs because they are evil.
Khulekani’s album was nominated in categories including Best Street Promotional Artist, Album of the Year and Artist of the Year.
