In his latest 2025 EP iHasi, Mqelisi Nkomo — popularly known as Gadla Nkosi — is transforming life’s most painful chapters into moving musical stories.
The contemporary artiste weaves messages of love, betrayal, and faith into four heartfelt tracks that reflect his journey as a father, pastor, and musician.
Gadla Nkosi explained that the title track iHasi is a song praising his wife, whom he describes as an angel in his life.
“It’s a message of appreciation. In a world where love is fading, iHasi reminds people to value their partners,” said Nkomo.
He began singing in 2017 and says his songs are more than melodies — they are stories drawn from real experience.
“My first song was Siyabuluka, which means ‘the witch’s powers are declining.’ It was a song of victory,” he recalled.
The second track on the EP, Sengiyahamba, tells the emotional story of a broken family.
“It is about giving up on trying to unite a family that refuses to stand together. It is painful, but sometimes, walking away is the only option.”
- Gadla Nkosi’s iHasi turns pain into powerful praise
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The third and perhaps most personal track, Umntanami, reflects on his struggle as a pastor and father.
Nkomo narrated how illness forced him to leave the pulpit, and after being hospitalised and using a wheelchair, he returned home to a heartbreaking reality.
“I found my son involved in crime and my daughter working as a prostitute,” he said.
“It broke me, especially knowing I raised them with offerings from the church. I had hoped for better.”
Despite the sadness embedded in his music, Gadla Nkosi remains committed to healing through art.
He believes storytelling through song has the power to comfort and change lives.
“I sing with purpose. Whether it is love, disappointment, or hope, I want people to hear their own stories in mine,” he said.
Nkosi’s iHasi EP is a deeply personal project that captures the highs and lows of a man who has faced life head-on — with faith, honesty, and music.
