Faith Ndlovu
Gospel poetry is not a common genre in local artistic circles. The segment requires a unique creative who is well vested in spirituality and faith — qualities that need to be complemented by unmatched skills in writing and reciting.
As hard as it can be — to weave a quatrain and a ballad in Gospel poetry, one local word smith, Xolani Sibanda, has taken it upon himself to be amongst the few poets who preach and send Christian messages to the world through his gift.
Sibanda who is a poet, musician as well as writer, is curving a name for himself in the literary and music scenes. His journey into Gospel poetry began as an underground Gospel Rap singer.
As a rapper, he discovered his poetic flow and punchlines — qualities that allowed him to make a decision and further challenge himself to tap into the world of poetry.
What sets his work apart is the commitment to bringing his listeners to the conclusion that Jesus Christ is the ultimate answer.
“Through my work, I try to bring my listeners to the conclusion that the end is all about Jesus Christ. For example, I once did a poem on gender-based violence and sealed it with the view that we all bear the image of God, hence, we need not abuse this image in us,” he said.
Sibanda’s creative process is deeply personal and rooted in his faith. He draws inspiration from personal experiences, scripture and other life encounters.
As a minister of the word of God, he envisions his poetry, music and writing as an extension of his ministry.
“The change that my work does to people is the one that reflects my faith. Sometimes, it is hard to know that you left a mark until someone tells you they were inspired by your work. I feel blessed every time I get such feedback because it’s a sign that I would have fulfilled the Lord’s work on earth,” he said.
Sibanda draws his inspiration from various Gospel poets including Philani Mathuthu also known as Iso Lokhozi whom he says is his vital source of encouragement.
Mdluli Imbongi Yosizi, Zamo Cofi (South African) and Seluna are some of the wordsmiths that inspire Sibanda.
Sibanda is working on an anthology titled Usiba Lwami, which he hopes to publish and distribute to schools.
