Photos by Elaine, exclusively for SGF!

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A Xhosa traditional, Ndikhokhele translates to Lead Me Lord and is a song praising the Lord.

Lyrics:

Xhosa Lyrics
I was unable to find the original Xhosa lyrics. If you know them, please contact me. Thank you.

English Translation
Lead me Lord
I’m a stranger in this world
You have the power
I have none
I am weak
Oh my Lord
You’re my shield

The blood that flowed from the cross
For my salvation
Let it continue flowing
To cleanse my sins
Oh My Lord
You’re my help

I’ve come to the river Jordan
Wash away all my sins
Take me across
Be my helper
Oh my Lord
You’re my refuge

Song Info:

The song can be found in the Choir’s Grace album.

The Choir’s version was arranged by Mulalo Mulovhedzi and Vusi Shabalala.

Listen:

Is there a particular song you would like to see be featured next? Leave a comment here or contact us.

Below is the video of the Choir performing on her stoop intermixed with her interview with Shimmy and Kevin.

They were treated to some home cooking and mingled with consular staff, fellow compatriots and friends.

Below are some photos from their stay, exclusive to SGF.

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Video includes the choir performing, interviews with Shimmy, Kevin and Honey, and other footage!

Tell us a little about your hometown and where you grew up.

I grew up in Soweto in a place called Zola. Zola is mostly known as the place where most kwaito (SA rap music) comes from. When I was 7 years old, we moved to a suburb called Protea Glen. Loved being with my family and friends.

What is your fondest childhood memory?

I remember being a child growing up in Soweto having dreams like any other child. I used to fantasize about being on stage holding that microphone, singing.

Had music always played an important role in your life?

Music has always been a big part of my life, when I was sad I used to sing a song and I knew I would feel better.

Have you always known that you were meant to be a performer?

Oh yes.

When did you join the Choir?

In 2005.

How did you hear about the Choir?

I saw the ad at SABC studios and I was also there to sing, so I just fell in love with the music.

What has been your favourite memory from trips abroad with the Choir? Have there been any particular countries that stand out?

Performing in Fiji, yes, and the USA.

On the flipside, have there been any not-so-good memories when traveling overseas?

When someone is sick or lost a family member.

What do you miss most about home when you are away touring with the Choir?

Miss being with my family and friends, miss going to church, miss being with my baby boy and miss my mom’s and mother in law’s home cooking.

When not performing, what are some of the things you do on tour to keep yourself busy/sane?

Spend time reading the bible and praying or listening to Gospel music. I also like relaxing in the Jacuzzi and using Facebook (social networks).

What artists past or present have inspired you? Is there a particular artist you would love the Choir to collaborate with in the future?

Celine Dion and Cece Winans.

Who are you closest with amongst the Choir members?

My husband and everyone in the choir are my brothers and sisters. But, I enjoy being in the company of people who likes to laugh, share jokes and just get crazzy!!

What are your all-time favourite SGC songs to perform in concert? Why?

Modimo and World in Union, because of their beautiful message. Also, Kaye le Kaye, I’ll Remember You, Arms of an Angel and Jo Ke Mohlolo.

If you were not with the Choir, what would you be doing and why?

Studying.

What was the last movie you watched? Did you like it and would you recommend it for others to see?

Good Deeds by Tyler Perry. Yes I would recommend it as it was such a beautiful movie.

If you and your fellow Choir members were competing on “Survivor”, who do you think would win the million dollars? Whom would you form alliances with?

I would have my husband, SK, Jeff, Shimmy, Kevin, Mandla, Portia and Ten ten on our team for sure and we would win. Those guys love to play games and know they would make sure that we don’t get eliminated!

What is something people would be surprised to find out about you?

That I loveeeeeeeee chewing bones after eating my meat.

What is the number one misconception non-South Africans have about your country?

That we come from a jungle.

What is your best joke?

I don’t have good jokes!

If you could pick one song to be the “theme song” of your life and how you live it, what would it be and why?

I Live to Worship You, because I was created to be a worshiper.

If you could have any super power, what would it be and why?

I would be a love super hero. I would inject people with love, those who have lost the meaning of it and I believe if everyone had love, this world would be a better place.

What is the meaning of life?

To love God, myself and those around me.

Lastly, any final message to your fans?

Never stop believing, it is the only chance we have!

Thank you.

All photos courtesy of Zanele Ngcamu.