SA music industry mourns gospel singer Israel Mosehla

Mosehla died at his home in the Vaal at the age of 50. According to local reports, the singer’s wife, Millicent, said Mosehla was suffering from hypertension that led to heart failure.

News of Mosehla’s death flooded social media with fellow musicians, record labels and industry professionals sharing their condolences.

“MTN Joyous Celebration is saddened by the passing of Israel Mosehla,” the gospel ensemble wrote on Facebook. “On behalf of the extended Joyous Celebration Family, we convey our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to the Mosehla Family.”

Gospel singer Rebecca Malope wrote on Twitter: “What a great loss. May your soul rest in eternal peace Pastor Israel Mosehla. Please keep his family and friends in your prayers.”

The Soweto Gospel Choir wrote: “We would like to send our heartfelt condolences bouquet to the Mosehla Family on the passing of Israel Mosehla, a well-known gospel giant who blessed us with his music and talent. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Contemporary gospel artist Dr Tumi wrote: “Sincerest condolences to the Mosehla family. We will fondly remember Pastor Israel and his ministry and legacy will continue to impact lives for generations.”

Ambitiouz Entertainment said: “The music industry has lost a true worshiper. We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to Pastor Israel Mosehla’s family, friends and supporters. Thank you for the great music, may your soul rest in eternal peace, man of God.”

The South African Music Awards said: “We are saddened by the passing of the great gospel singer, Israel Linda Mosehla. We send our condolences to his family, friends, and South Africans at large. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Mosehla was born in Soweto in 1970 in a family of worshipers and musicians. His family released three albums with Gallo in the 1980s. Mosehla, together with his brother Isaiah and friends Bongani Matsobane and Jabu Nkabinde, formed a gospel group called G Effect. He later left the group and launched a solo career, which saw his music earning him fame in the local gospel scene. Mosehla released the albums Ke Habile (2010), Praise & Worship Encounter with Israel Mosehla (2014), Crown Him King (2014), Worthy of My Praise (Live in Community Church) (2014), Gods Sovereignty (2015) and Mopholosi Oaka Oa Phela (2019), among others.