Noko Mashilo
After a lengthy break from releasing new music, traditional gospel singer Luyanda Ramatswi has returned with two uplifting singles, Modimo wa Rona and Jeso o Tsogile. He said the songs were inspired by a desire to bring hope, healing and comfort to people navigating grief, hardship and uncertainty.
The 41-year-old artist, originally from Ga Mashalane village in Senwabarwana, Limpopo, and now based in Pretoria, said his latest music reflects the emotional and spiritual struggles many people are facing.
“After a long time of not releasing music, I felt that I needed to come up with songs that would bring hope and comfort to many souls. I ended up composing Jeso o Tsogile and Modimo wa Rona. These are songs of encouragement and hope,” Ramatswi told The News Desk.
One of the highlights of Modimo wa Rona is Ramatswi’s collaboration with celebrated gospel singer Zodwa Twecu. He said the decision to feature her came naturally because of his long-standing admiration for her ministry and distinctive voice.
“I chose Twecu because of her soulful voice. I have loved her music since I was young when she worked with Lundi Tyamara and Deborah Fraser,” he said.
Ramatswi said releasing Jeso o Tsogile at this stage of his career was driven by the growing emotional pain experienced by many communities.
“I felt it was the right time to release such songs because I have seen many people facing life challenges and losing their loved ones,” he said.
Known for his rich, soulful voice and expressive worship style, Ramatswi said every song he writes begins with reflecting on what is happening in society before seeking God’s guidance.
“Every time I record, I first look around and see what is happening and the challenges we are facing as children of God. Then I come up with something that will bring hope and healing to our hearts,” he explained.
Reflecting on his musical journey, Ramatswi described working with renowned gospel singer Kholeka as one of the greatest blessings of his career.
“Working with Kholeka is a beautiful thing that I never believed would happen in my life. I respect and love her ministry. She is one of my favourite ministers in the gospel genre,” he said.
His collaboration with Zimbabwean gospel artist Mawamba Bunjira also carried a message of unity beyond borders. Ramatswi said he was inspired by Bunjira’s ministry and the support the artist enjoys among gospel audiences in Zimbabwe.
“Working with Bunjira is also a blessing because of his touching voice. I realised that he is loved by many gospel music lovers in Zimbabwe, so I felt that with his voice and mine we could create something beautiful, and people loved the song,” he said.
Addressing concerns around xenophobia, Ramatswi urged Christians to respond with prayer, compassion and unity.
“Let us pray for one another and ask God to intervene in the situations facing other countries so they can overcome their challenges,” he said.
For Ramatswi, gospel music is more than entertainment. He described it as a ministry centred on healing and encouragement.
“I use gospel music as a place of healing and comfort. In gospel, we remind each other about what God wants and what He does not want, and that is what makes my ministry unique,” he said.
Like many musicians, Ramatswi acknowledged the financial challenges brought about by the decline of CD and DVD sales and the slow transition to digital platforms.
“We no longer have CDs and DVDs, and that has affected our income because many people still are not used to digital platforms. But we trust the Lord,” he said.
Despite those challenges, he said the response to his latest releases had been overwhelmingly encouraging.
“Modimo wa Rona has become one of the favourite songs, and Jeso o Tsogile is also doing very well. The response has been good, and bookings are increasing,” he said.
His growing influence has also opened international opportunities. Ramatswi confirmed that he is scheduled to minister at the Embikwakhe event in Eswatini on 4 September during the live recording of gospel musician Archbishop Gqina Masuku.
“I am grateful that God continues to open new doors for my ministry. Being invited to minister in Eswatini during Archbishop Gqina Masuku’s live recording is a great honour, and I look forward to worshipping with believers there,” he said.
Offering advice to aspiring gospel musicians, Ramatswi said success in the industry requires more than talent.
“Research the industry, remain humble and build good character. Talent does not go alone. Humility and good character will open doors and place you on bigger stages,” he said.
Ramatswi encouraged supporters to stream his music on all major digital platforms worldwide and said bookings could be made through his official email.
“My music is available on all digital stores worldwide, and bookings can be made through our email, Bookings@luyandaramatswi.co.za,” he said.