Nqubeko Mbatha is a name synonymous with music excellence. He has over 22 years experience in the music industry; having started his professional career as a winner in a song writing competition that gave him an audience before South African music heavyweights. He has played keys for Mafikizolo, Malaika, Thandiswa Mazwai, Concord Nkabinde, Themba Mkhize, Mthunzi Namba, Somizi Mhlongo and the late Busi Mhlongo. He has gone on to serve for 11 years as musical director and then producer of the biggest gospel ensemble in SA (Joyous Celebration). In 2012, left the ensemble and went on to pursue a solo career signed to Universal Music, working together with Koko Records; a label which he co-owns.
With vast expertise in live and studio music production, Nqubeko has also produced music for numerous national TV series. He has been music producer for the annual SABC GOSPEL CLASSICS TV show. Nqubeko produced music on a number of shows for the SABC: GOSPEL CLASSICS (Season 3 -6), GOSPEL AVENUE (season 1-3) and WORD AND SONG (Season 1). Crossing from broadcast to theatre, Nqubeko has produced music for Daughters of the King, a successful Easter theatre production. He has also worked as music producer of the international Music Show format GOSPEL GOES CLASSICAL. Which, in 2016, featured Grammy award-winning artist Donnie McClurkin in a first-time recording. Nqubeko was the resident music director for 3 years working with the likes of Trent Phillips and Dr. Glen Caldwell to name a few. He also has worked as music director on top South African LIVE awards shows: Metro FM awards, SA Sports Awards and SA Teachers’ Awards.
In 2011, he released his debut album titled FOREVER I’LL WORSHIP, which he co-produced with Ntokozo Mbambo and Sifiso Mavuso. The album was well received in the African music industry, winning two Gospel Crown awards, and a coveted nomination at the 18th annual SAMAs.
In 2013, Nqubeko then recorded a Live DVD and CD recording of his second offering – Sentiments of a Worshiper. The event sold out the Atterbury Theatre in Pretoria and has received a number of local accolades; Metro FM nomination and won a SAMA award for Best Contemporary Faith album.
In 2017, Nqubeko released his third album titled “Heaven’s Ways”. He says this album is his breakthrough album beyond South African borders, having worked with artists from other African countries. His passion to extend his Gospel music platform beyond South Africa saw him being musical director and producer of a cultural crossover event featuring artists from South Africa and Nigeria (#alabanzaSAmeetsNigeria). The album went on to win an esteemed SAMA for the Best Contemporary Faith Album in the SAMA18 event in Sun City.
In 2020, Nqubeko faced the COVID19 pandemic head-on with the release of a completely new album titled; DEVOTION. An apt 11-track album that presents songs of comfort and cheer, speaking skillfully to the ear whilst pulling at the heartstrings. The album itself has been in the works since 2019 and culminated to a timely release in July 2020.
In 2021 he proudly opened doors to his first public studio, ED Sounds Studios based in Johannesburg. A year after opening his studio doors, he embarked on a journey to discover a raw Gospel talent that he will write a song for, record in his studio, and assist to publish and own the master to that single. Uplifting and teaching as he rises to greater heights is something he actively does!
His most recently produced albums include albums for artists like Benjamin Dube, the late Deborah Fraser, Xolani Sithole, Ayanda Ntanzi and Ntokozo Mbambo, who have also received multiple awards and nominations in the best South African awards and beyond.
Mr Mbatha has a keen attention to detail, whilst always charging forth in faith! He is a music giant with a gentle but stern heart.
Recent Events
Good Friday Celebration 2023
The United Tour