Gospel sensation Nthabiseng Julia Thejane steps into the spotlight with her solo release “Re Mmona Ka Mesebetse”
After years of lending her powerful voice behind some of gospel music’s most revered names like Dr Rebecca Malope, Lundi Tyamara, Sfiso Ncwane, Ringo Madlingozi, and many more. Nthabiseng Julia Thejane, a seasoned gospel backing vocalist, is officially stepping into the spotlight with the single “Re Mmona Ka Mesebetse”
JOHANNESBURG – 30 February 2026: This is the beginning of her journey as a solo artist. As she steps boldly into her own lane, Nthabiseng stands as a testament to patience, preparation, and divine timing—proving that sometimes, the strongest voices are first refined in the background. She announces the release of her single “Re Mmona Ka Mesebetse” marking a deeply personal and faith-driven new chapter in her musical journey. Her style of gospel I’m doing is called traditional gospel, also known as African traditional gospel.
Known for her emotive delivery, vocal precision, and unwavering commitment to ministry, Nthabiseng has spent years shaping worship experiences from the background—supporting renowned gospel artists on stage and in studio sessions. Now, she brings her own testimony to the forefront with original music that reflects her walk of faith, resilience, and spiritual growth.
“Music has been a part of me since I was a teen, from primary to high school, I took part in school choirs and church choirs. Doing back ups has shaped me and helped me in gaining confidence and being able to stand firm on the centre stage.”
Her single “Re Mmona Ka Mesebetse” blends rich gospel harmonies with contemporary influences, yet remains true to her traditional gospel’ style. Rooted in worship, the song speaks to themes of hope, obedience, healing, and trusting God’s timing – messages shaped by her years of service and preparation.
QUESTIONS &ANSWERS WITH NTHABISENG
What message should people take from the single?
Everything we do and all difficulties we go through are for a reason and to strengthen our faith. I have overcame a lot. This single means the world to me because it is also beginning of my journey as a solo artist.
You have been a baking vocalist to many – at what point did you feel ready to step out as a solo artist?
In 2023, when Sechaba Pali gave me a platform and a chance to lead one of his songs at a festival in Polokwane. I knew right there that I was ready for a solo project but dew to lack of funds I couldn’t venture out but had to wait for the right opportunity.
What led to the opportunity of becoming a backing vocalist for such legendary artists?
Hunger to grow big and dreaming to be like them one day pushed into becoming a backing vocalist so that I get to learn and understand how to navigate the industry when I become a solo artist.
What challenges did you face being a backing singer to solo artist?
Hardly any challenges because in the midst of being a backing singer, I would also do performances on my own and also got a chance to observe from other artists what it means to be a solo artist, and how you contain yourself as a solo artist.
How did you overcome fear or self-doubt during that transition?
I struggled for a long time with my confidence because some musicians would make remarks that I’m not a good singer, and I don’t have the look or what it takes. But through self-belief, I realised that jealousy does exist. People can make you walk away from what you meant to be, and someone said to me. So, now I do everything with confidence and pride because we are all unique and different in all we do. Fear and doubt were a thing of the past after I applied such motivation in myself. I also received encouragement from family, church members and other musicians to go solo.
What are the most valuable lessons you learned from working closely with big names?
All round respect; discipline, knowing your music, self confidence, standing firm in what you want and knowing your value as an artist.
About Nthabiseng Julia Thejane
Singer and stage actress Nthabiseng was born and raised in Duduza, Springs in Gauteng. She started her musical journey at the tender age of 14 years old. In her first year of high school she joined Esibonelwesihle Youth Choir directed by Mr Xoki her former Arts and culture teacher. She later got introduced to a church choir in the Assemblies of God called, named “Nominal.” It was then she got to understand different style of music apart from choral music. She then joined Thabiso Moloi’s band as his backing vocalist, and because of her dedication and love for music, she was introduced Gospeal sensation, Nankie. Seeing her need to want to know and understand more about music, she enrolled at Sibikwa School of art. Here sh got a chance to learn stage acting. Sworkes on the production Umthunzi ka Jama, directed by Mr Mkhwanazi. Due to a lack of funding, she was forced to drop out of school but focused her energies on being a backing vocalist. Nthabiseng got introduced to Sello Chicco Twala and Bra Mac Mathunjwa, who both played a huge role in making her understand the other side of the music and entertainment industry. Today, she releases her music under Asanda Empires as a solo artist.