South African gospel icon Dr Rebecca Malope will receive one of the highest honours from the Basadi Music Awards this year when she receives the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The event will take place at the Joburg Theatre on August 2.
Affectionately known as the Queen of Gospel, Malope’s extraordinary career spans more than four decades.
With an astonishing discography of 36 albums and over 10-million records sold globally, her voice has become a fixture in South African homes and places of worship, offering solace, inspiration, and joy to generations.
Journey to stardom
The hard work has paid off, with Malope being honoured with the Metro FM Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award 2025, the Crown Music Lifetime Achievers Award, and the SABC Gospel Music Awards.
Born Batsogile Lovederia Malope in Lekazi, Mpumalanga, her journey to stardom is one of resilience and divine calling.
Despite suffering from health complications as a child and growing up in poverty, Malope’s passion for music led her and her sister to walk nearly 400km to Johannesburg when she was just 16 years old.
Her significant breakthrough occurred in 1987 when she emerged victorious in the Shell Road to Fame competition, thanks to her poignant gospel anthem Shine On, a song that profoundly resonated with a nation struggling with apartheid.
Her influence, however, stretches well beyond the music charts.
Order of Ikhamanga
Malope rose to prominence on television by hosting the popular gospel programme It’s Gospel Time and serving as a judge on Clash of the Choirs, where she mentored upcoming talents.
In 2021, she was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) by President Cyril Ramaphosa, honouring her immense contribution to the arts and culture of South Africa.
“Honouring Dr Rebecca Malope is more than symbolic; it is necessary. She represents courage, excellence, and purpose, values at the core of what Basadi stands for.
“Her music has not only healed wounds but has been a guiding light for so many,” said Hloni Modise, the CEO of the Basadi in Music Awards.
National broadcaster SABC2, the official media partner of the awards, echoed this sentiment.
“SABC2 is proud to showcase women whose stories have helped shape our cultural identity. Dr Malope’s voice has transcended generations and continues to be a powerful force,” said Yonwaba Pangeni, the channel head at SABC2.
Joburg Theatre CEO Xoliswa Nduneni added: “It’s a great honour for us to host such a landmark moment. Dr Malope’s recognition is a tribute to history and heritage.”
Proud and meaningful moment
Corporate sponsors and partners have also weighed in. “Dr Malope’s voice has been the soundtrack of hope for generations.
“Her music uplifted nations and touched countless hearts, said Lerato Selepe Tikwayo, the marketing manager at Sofnfree.
Lerato Matsoso, CAPASSO’s head of stakeholder relations and communications, stated: “Her voice opened doors for generations of artists. We salute her lasting contribution to music creators’ rights and her enduring influence in the industry.”
Echoing the celebration, Leroy Monaheng, the managing director of Black Mobile, added: “We are passionate about connecting people to South Africa’s cultural heartbeat. Celebrating Dr Malope is a proud and meaningful moment for us.”
As the ceremony approaches, South Africans and fans worldwide eagerly anticipate honouring a woman whose life and music have profoundly influenced the nation’s spirit.
