Ntokozo Mbambo is an Mzansi gospel giant. Outside of the colossal Joyous Celebration, she released her debut solo album ‘Bambelela’ in 2002, and the live DVD/CD ‘Keep on Believing’ in 2007. This was produced by Nqubeko Mbatha, who later became her husband!
That release earned her a Metro FM nomination in the Best Gospel album 2007 category, as well as three nominations at the 2008 Crown Gospel Music Awards.
But it was with 2012’s double-Platinum album ‘Filled’ that her star started to really soar. Recorded at a sold-out Lyric Theatre concert in Johannesburg, the release won awards at the 2013 SAMAs, at the 2012 and 2013 Crown Gospel Awards, and at the 2013 Africa Gospel Music Awards held in the UK.
In 2015 she returned with ‘Spirit and Life’, another live album which was preceded by the single ‘Dawning of the New Day’, and her latest release, 'The First Noël' arrived just ahead of Christmas last year.
She stamped her skills all over Idols last season during our gospel duets show – her performance of ‘In The Shadow’ alongside eventual winner Zama was a smash and has well over 1 million views on YouTube.
She’s also shared stages with Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin and CeCe Winans on their South African tours, and she’s performed internationally in the US (at Dr. Bill Winston Ministries), Ghana, Swaziland, Kenya, Botswana and in the UK in various venues.
When asked she says that as much as she enjoys ministering at the various places she is invited, she enjoys training and imparting skill and knowledge to other singers and aspiring musicians.
Which makes her the perfect pick for our Idols SA judging panel!
Season 17 of Idols SA broadcasts on Sundays at 17:30 on Mzansi Magic Channel 161, and at 17:00 from the live shows. Get exclusive updates and a behind the scenes look at all the action right here on our site. Don't forget to join the conversation by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #IdolsSA.