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Some artists have a moment. Amadodana Ase Wesile have had a four decade long journey. Now, after 41 years of making traditional gospel music, the group is entering a new chapter. There is plenty to celebrate and even more to look forward to. The group’s latest album, Monghali Mesia, won Best African Indigenous Faith Album at SAMA32, while Amadodana were also named Radio 2000’s Duo/Group of the Year.
For Amadodana, the awards are a reminder that staying true to their sound hasn’t stopped them from reaching new audiences. According to group member Siphiwo Maxhosa, the key to Amadodana’s longevity is simple: staying connected to their roots while paying attention to how the world is changing.
“We think it is about relevance. It is understanding the environment under which we do this work of traditional gospel music; and also not forgetting where we come from.” he says.
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With their award-winning album Monghali Mesia, Amadodana continue to explore the themes of faith, spirituality and Christian gospel tradition that has defined most of their music, while staying connected to the sound the group has developed.
The Radio 2000 award was an unexpected highlight for the group. Maxhosa says they were surprised to be recognised by a station with such a broad audience — another sign that their sound can connect with diverse groups.
They also want to play around with infusing traditional sounds with newer musical styles. The group sees music as an art form that can speak to people during difficult times, and Maxhosa hopes Amadodana's music can offer listeners motivation and renewed hope.
Now, the focus is on what comes next. The group is already looking ahead to its next album, planned for release through Gallo Music around Easter 2027. It's still early days and Maxhosa says the group is taking its time to work out what comes next and what will resonate with listeners. The group’s reach also extends beyond South Africa with support from Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana and Mozambique.
After more than 40 albums, the group is still looking ahead without leaving their musical roots behind. The 2027 album will be another chapter in a career that has already lasted more than four decades and Amadodana aren’t showing signs of slowing down.
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