The Soweto Gospel Choir is one of those groups that draws people in not with the actual meaning of their lyrics, but the sheer power of their performances. While its mission is to spread the Christian faith, concert-goers are more likely to leave a show remembering the spectacle of 26 smiling and vibrantly dressed choir members singing joyously together than any moral advice that was being relayed. 

Since emerging in 2002 from the South African township that gave it its name, the globe-trotting choir has steadily built its reputation. From just 50 shows in 2003 – mostly in Australia, New Zealand and at home – it played around 200 concerts last year. And a month-long stint at the famous Edinburgh Festival in 2004 only boosted its popularity. This climb to fame culminated in winning a Grammy earlier this year for Best Traditional World Music Album for its 2006 effort Blessed. The group’s now in such huge demand that this year alone it will have played more than 115 concerts in ten countries before it revisits our shores (as part of the Singapore Sun Festival) for the first time since 2004. 

The concerts this month will feature the choir’s ‘African Spirit’ show, inspired by the album of the same name. While some of the songs are sung in English (including a memorable a cappella version of the famous ‘Rivers of Babylon’), most are Zulu and Sotho, languages native to South Africa. Even if you don’t understand their meaning, these songs stand tall. 

Don’t bet on seeing the stereotypical images of swaying in unison and cries of ‘Hallellujah’ associated with American gospel choirs. Instead, expect powerful solo vocals, beautiful harmonies and an interplay of both, often set only to the simple beat of African drums. You don’t have to be a Christian to enjoy Soweto – just show up and believe in the music.

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