Joburg Theatre launches Judith Sephuma’s newest album
24 July 2017
The Joburg Theatre, one of the City of Johannesburg’s three entertainment arenas, was the scene of the launch of songstress par excellence Judith Sephuma’s newest album, My Worship Live, on Friday July 21.
She gave an inspired performance that had the appreciative audience eating out of the palms of her hand. My Worship Live is a 17-track offering recently recorded in front of a live audience and released three months ago.
Produced by pianist and songwriter Job Thako, the album includes gospel songs such as I Lift My Hand and Empty Me, written by Jamaican-based and world-renowned musician Chevelle Franklyn.
Opening the concert on the Mandela stage with the track Everlasting God (I Believe) from her second gospel offering, Sephuma took music lovers back in time and introduced them to newly arranged hymns and original songs. During the show, the audience was treated to a repertoire of new gospel songs, all of which showcased Sephuma’s powerful voice and stage presence, which have earned her a dedicated following both locally and internationally.
City of Johannesburg Speaker of Council Cllr Vasco da Gama, who attended the live concert with his wife, said: “I’m a keen follower of Judith Sephuma’s music. I’ve attended a number of her live shows.”
He said Sephuma’s songs were not only relaxing but had a powerful message in them. “My wife and I just celebrated our wedding anniversary and this is our date night,” he said.
Cllr Da Gama said he was highly impressed by the turnout, adding that hosting such shows not only promoted the theatre but also attracted new audiences.
“The more revenue we get from the theatre, the more the City can deliver services to the people. I encourage people to come out and enjoy the variety of shows that the theatre has to offer,” said Cllr Da Gama.
Actress Rami Chuene said Sephuma had come long way. She said the talented singer was able to bring people closer to God through her music. “This was a blessed night. I came with my mother and she, too, enjoyed the show,” said Chuene.
Sephuma said she had dedicated the album to God, adding that every song on it came from a special place. “Tonight is such a beautiful night. I could cry from the first song to the last. Through each and every song I sing here tonight, I pray that God continues to work through me so I can be a better person,” said Sephuma.
Other well-known figures who attended included designer David Tlale, Public Service and Administration Minister Faith Muthambi, businesswoman Savita Mbuli and TV personality Penny Lebyane. Sephuma is touring the country until next year.