Mzwakhe Mbuli Claims He Originated the Crown Gospel Awards, Alleges Zanele Mbokazi Pushed Him Out
- South African poet Mzwakhe Mbuli alleged that the Crown Gospel Music Awards were initially his idea
- The awards ceremony has always been linked to the late Zanele Mbokazi, who passed away this week
- Mbuli alleged that the former Ukhozi FM radio host sidelined him when launching the awards, adding that they worked together
Mzwakhe Mbuli is making a bold claim about his role as a co-founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards. Following the passing of Zanele Mbokazi at the age of 52 on Monday, 12 August 2024, Mbuli quickly issued a statement asserting his involvement.
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Mzwakhe Mbuli releases statement on Crown Gospel Music following Zanele's passing
Popular South African poet Mzwakhe Mbuli reportedly sent out a statement where he alleged that the Crown Gospel Music Awards were his brainchild.
According to ZiMoja, shortly after Zanele Mbokazi's death was announced this week, Mbuli posted a statement via a WhatsApp group declaring the awards were his idea.
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A part of the statement reads: "Mzwakhe Mbuli is the founder of the SABC Crown Gospel Awards. He started when Advocate Dali Mpofu and the late Mvuzo Mvebe were at the SABC. Official meetings took place at the SABC Headquarters in Auckland Park. The rest is history, even though Mzwakhe Mbuli's name was muted."
Why is Mzwakhe Mbuli mentioning this after Mbokazi's passing?
An insider told the news publication that Mbuli worked with the former Ukhozi FM radio host when creating the awards. They devised a team of journalists who would work as the PR team and help promote them.
However, Mbuli felt excluded from the awards, adding that it was his idea in the first place.
No hard feelings, says Mzwakhe Mbuli
The news of Mbuli's involvement with the awards is not new; people who worked closely on the matter have always echoed his involvement.
However, when asked about this, Mbuli told the news publication that it is now "water under the bridge."
"The news about the passing away of Zanele Mbokazi shocked us. May God strengthen the bereaved family during this period of grief. I started the awards with journalists initially, but it is all water under the bridge," he said.
What you need to know about Mzwakhe Mbuli
Mzwakhe Mbuli is the father of Mzwakhe Mbuli Jr., better known as Robot Boii. Mzwakhe Mbuli began his career following the Soweto Uprising on June 16, 1976, which played a significant role in shaping his views and initiating his journey as a poet. By 1979, he was performing for the Congress of South African Students (COSAS) as a member of Khuyhangano.
Mbuli was born in a Johannesburg suburb during the height of apartheid. His passion for traditional music and singing was inspired by his father, who encouraged him to participate in Zulu dance and music events from a young age.
Shawun Mkhize mourns Zanele
In more entertainment news, Briefly News reported that Shauwn Mkhize mourned Zanele Mbokazi after news of her passing.
The Royal AM FC boss paid tribute to her friend and colleague Zanele on her Instagram page.
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Source: Briefly News
