When one thinks of 1996, what pops into your head? Bafana Bafana winning the Africa Cup of Nations, SA’s Constitution being signed into law or the birth of South Africa’s top gospel phenomenon, MTN Joyous Celebration? For gospel music lovers, MTN Joyous Celebration looms significantly large as any other 1996 highlights.
No one at that time could have anticipated that the very first note sung on that initial show would mark the beginning of twenty years of wonder, spiritual upliftment and revival. It was a shift in the history of gospel music, not only in South Africa but on the African continent as well.
It marked the beginning of memories that would carry individual fans and families across the threshold of life, love and healing. Over the past two decades, MTN Joyous Celebration became a place where talent was honed and refined, from singers to backstage crew. Different venues and regions in the country and beyond fell in love with the brand and praise and worship became part and parcel of South Africa’s musical landscape; from theaters to halls and now stadiums.
Following an epic recording at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium over the festive season, the production releases its 20th installment; a momentous milestone in the group’s history.
The Joyous 20 CD&DVD carries the unique Joyous sound, fueled by the musical vision of co-founders; Lindelani Mkhize, Jabu Hlongwane and Mthunzi Namba.
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Over the 20 years the concept has managed to build a legacy that has inspired many young aspiring musicians. This legacy is continually morphing and adapting with each release. Each record adopts aspects of various influences while it maintains the hallmarks of a South African gospel music genre. Joyous 20 is no different – it is an ambitious collection of tracks, from rock to ama-Zion to a tinge of jazz.
“The album brings together everything from traditional gospel to avant-garde, rock; allowing musicians who can dance, sing, and play instruments to work together,” says Hlongwane.
As they continue to stay true to their nature, the ensemble will host a massive celebration this Easter at Carnival City to launch the much anticipated Joyous 20. The 3-day event at Carnival City will have shows starting at 19h30 on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th March, concluding with an earlier show on Easter Sunday at 17h00 at the Big Top Arena.
“As the brand behind this hugely successful gospel ensemble, we are very proud of Joyous Celebration for achieving this milestone and are in no doubt that they will leave the crowds in awe at Carnival City. This year, we are celebrating our long and proud association with the group by rewarding a loyal fan with a trip to the USA to attend MegaFest simply by engaging with MTN and accessing exclusive MTN Joyous Celebration CallerTunez by dialing the USSD strings below,” says Larry Annetts, Chief Consumer Officer at MTN SA.
Track Name Artist Tone code
Glory MTN Joyous Celebration *123*90#
Wongigcina Emseni #2 MTN Joyous Celebration *123*91#
I Love You MTN Joyous Celebration *123*92#
Awesome MTN Joyous Celebration *123*93#
Kisihlabelo MTN Joyous Celebration *123*94#
Wongigcina Emseni #1 MTN Joyous Celebration *123*95#
In true form, the launch performances at Carnival City will blend the right mix of ingredients including their majestic voices, unmatched harmonies, signature dances moves, world class costumes and quality show production – all of which has endeared them to throngs of fans across the globe.
Tickets are available on sale at Computicket at a cost of between R180 and R400
For more information visit www.joyous.co.za
Follow MTN Joyous Celebration on social media:
Facebook: My Joyous Celebration
Twitter: @JoyousSA
Instagram: joyouscelebration
