The road to the 19th Icebolethu Crown Gospel Music Awards officially began with a spectacular All White Party in Durban, where the highly anticipated list of nominees was unveiled.

Attended by over 300 gospel artists, media figures, corporate leaders, and social influencers, the elegant evening celebrated both legendary icons and emerging powerhouses within the African gospel landscape.

The night belonged to a mix of fresh talent and established industry giants.

Rising star Ndumiso Zungu secured two major nominations: Best Itende and the highly sought-after Best Song of the Year for his hit “Songena Ngemithandazo”.

The Umlazi Gospel Choir (The Original) also emerged as a dominant force, picking up three nominations, including a Song of the Year nod for “Lalel’indaba”.

Ngcobo also joined the fiercely competitive Song of the Year race, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd before delivering a powerful closing performance to cap off the night.

The selection process was exceptionally rigorous this year.

Out of more than 1,400 entries submitted from across South Africa and the wider African continent, only 250 artists progressed to the final nominee list.

The diversity of the industry is heavily reflected in the Best Newcomer category, which features six artists representing different provinces.

The Crown Gospel Music Awards continue to serve as a vital national and continental platform. Icebolethu Group CEO Dr Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo addressed the audience, sharing her pride in partnering with the brand.

She emphasized that the collaboration is “more than business,” describing it as a spiritual mission to honor and continue the profound legacy of the late Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule.

Executive Producer Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule extended his gratitude to the media and corporate partners for their investment.

He urged gospel music lovers across the country to actively participate in the next phase of the awards

“The nominees are now official. We encourage the public and gospel music lovers to buy their tickets, dress up and come rejoice in His presence,” Nkambule stated.

The main ceremony will take place on 15 November 2026 at the ICC Durban.
Music fans can purchase tickets through Webtickets to witness the biggest night in African gospel music.

KEY NOMINEES

Category Nominees

Best Song of the Year

Umlazi Gospel Choir The Original (“Lalel’indaba”), Ndumiso Zungu (“Songena Ngemithandazo”), Ntokozo Ngongoma (“Jesu Uyilanga”), Kgethang Konese (“Rea Ho Leboga”), Newie (“Songs of Hope”), Rev Ngcobo (“Mkhulu Uyesabeka / Zange Angathembeki”)

Best Artist of the Year

Breakthrough Worship ZA, Elle Tisane, Canaan Nyathi, Kgethang Konese

Male Gospel Artist

Sibusiso Nzima, Canaan Nyathi, Ntokozo Ngongoma, Kgethang Konese

Female Gospel Artist Nozipho Phiri, Elle Tisane, Newie

Best Newcomer Ezile Jikijela, Gundolawe Ramudzuli, Nothando Zulu, Mphotholozi, Max Mqhakayi, Andile Tsako

Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content