Success means making an impact in people’s lives, says gospel singer Shekinah Motsa

Early inspiration and journey

Can you share with us your earliest memories of music and how you got involved in gospel music?

I started singing in church with my two friends as a trio in 2005. It was such a great time. That’s where I discovered and believed I could hold a note. My parents have a different story as they tell stories of me singing from the age of two.

What role did your upbringing and church community play in shaping your musical career?

My upbringing played a huge role because I had no choice but to sing gospel music as my father is a pastor. So whatever I did I had to make sure it did not reflect badly on my father. The gospel was also instilled in me from a young age and I accepted Jesus into my life and never looked back. The church played a huge role by grounding me and instilling other teachings of Christ.

Turning points

You auditioned for Women in Praise in 2016, which was not successful. How did you handle that setback and what did you learn from the experience?

That audition was my first and I vowed it would be my last, as it broke me. From that audition I got see how much people loved and supported me because when they announced the winner people were ready to fight.

Joining Swazi Praise marked a significant step in your career. How did being part of this group influence your musical style and aspirations?

Swazi Praise was formed after the Women in Praise competition. Lerato events saw great potential from the ladies who joined the competition and decided to record us.

Recognition and achievements

Winning the Best Gospel Artist awards in 2020 and 2021 at the Social Media Awards must have been a rewarding experience. How did these accolades affect your career and personal journey?

These two awards came as a shock because most of my energy and time was directed to school as I was still studying. I would be ministering mostly in my local church and get invites from other churches. So when I was nominated I was shocked because I felt I wasn’t doing enough, but it showed I was making an impact in people's lives unknowingly.

Could you tell us about the inspiration behind your debut album My Story and what listeners can expect from it?

This is an album that tells my personal story. It’s close to my heart. People close to me know how I have to fight to achieve certain goals or things in life. I fight for everything. There is a song in the album titled Ngiphefumlele. I wrote that song after an attempt at taking my [own] life because felt I was tired of fighting.

Listeners should expect a message of hope, total surrender and thanksgiving from that album.

Musical journey

How do you balance traditional gospel influences with contemporary music trends in your songwriting and performances?

⁠It comes naturally because I grew up in a traditional church where we sang beautiful traditional songs and I love contemporary music.

Joining Spirit of Praise

Being introduced as a member of Spirit of Praise in 2024 is a significant milestone. How did this opportunity come about and what does it mean for your career?

That is one of the highlights of my music career. I was not expecting it. When I got the call I did not believe it. A huge shoutout to whoever suggested me there.

What unique contributions do you hope to bring to Spirit of Praise as an ensemble?

I am bringing Shekinah to Spirit of Praise. I hope people will love and embrace her.

Impact and future goals

How do you measure success in your career as a gospel artist, beyond awards and recognition?

By the impact I make in people’s lives. If I sing and no-one gets any benefit from it, then I would have wasted my time.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the next few years in your music and ministry?

I’m looking forward to the recording of my new EP which I believe will affect lives and give a broader view on who Shekinah Motsa is.

Digital era and audience engagement

How has the availability of your music on digital platforms influenced your reach and interaction with your audience?

It’s reached out to a lot more people than it would have if we were still selling hard copy CDs

In what ways do you use social media and online platforms to connect with your fans and share your message?

I share updates on where I will be ministering and also share a bit of my personal life to give the people a feel of who Shekinah is.