From darkness to the spotlight, music saved this gospel singer from a life of crime
A dulcet voice fills the stadium. The crowd raise their hands and sway in time with the melody. Gospel singer Xolani Jwaga certainly has a gift. But while many know of his music, few understand the struggle it took for him to reach the spotlight.
Growing up, Jwaga battled with a learning disability that went untreated. He almost failed all of his grades, and his self-esteem suffered. In search of comfort, Jwaga started mixing with the wrong crowd. He later developed a harmful smoking habit and became involved in petty theft. But this all changed when Jwaga went to live with his aunt, who was a regular church-goer. After being encouraged to attend and participate in the church band, he discovered his innate zeal for drumming. Regular performances boosted his confidence, and he soon made his way to the microphone. Then, things began falling into place. “When I sing, I’m everything I was meant to be,” Jwaga says.
Today, he has released two albums and toured both Africa and Europe. Jwaga’s vocals are intertwined with intimate messages that inspire his listeners. Praising life and instilling hope, he’s soothed many distressed hearts. Music healed him from a traumatic past, and now he’s motivating others through his harmonies. “Never give up,” Jwaga says.
Footage by Bakwena Productions and XPJ Events was used in the creation of this film.
