For some, gospel music is simply a business and a way of generating income, but for gospel music star Mr Rudzani Peterson Mammba, it is a form of worship and preaching to people.

Mammba, who is from Makhuvha outside Thohoyandou and is also a technical supervisor at the University of Venda, already has three albums to his name. His debut album, Faresa, was recorded and released in 2019, followed by Thoma, released in 2021, and Mudzimu wa Ngoho, which he released in 2022.

A member of the Apostolic Faith Mission Tshitereke, he has not been deterred by the recent downturn in the music industry, where artists can barely afford to record new music. He continues to make his presence felt and recently released his fourth album, Shavhela kha Yesu. The album was recorded at V Beats Recording Studio, with assistance from his long-time music colleague, Mr Thilivhali Makhuvha, among others.

“For me, gospel music is about healing and mending broken hearts. It is a way of worship and also preaching to the masses. Many in the industry have decided to quit because music is no longer profitable, but I feel I have a duty to continue despite the odds. I am not singing for money, but to help those with life challenges to cope,” he said.

Mammba shared that he used to sing at events and funerals but never knew he had what it took to be a recording artist. “It was while singing at a funeral that Thilivhali Makhuvha spotted my talent. He came to me after the funeral and congratulated me on my beautiful voice. He told me not to waste my voice and talent. He later took me under his guidance, and the rest is history. I am so indebted to him, and as a way of thanking him for all he did for me, I have featured him on all my albums,” Mammba said.