World mourns death of gospel artiste and pastor Neyi Zimu

Zimu, 49, died Wednesday at the Busamed Hospital in Modderfontein, South African where he was receiving chemotherapy treatment for mycosis fungoides – a rare blood disorder that affects the skin.

The multi-award winning South African gospel artist and businessman has touched the lives of millions around the world with his soulful music during a career that spanned more than 20 years. 

Mega hit songs such as Jehova Retshepile Wena (performed with Spirit Praise), Sinenqaba, Lamb of God, Hamba Name, Lord We Worship You, and Come as you are,  Modimo Ke O and Jeso Rato La Hao, are among the many sang by Zimu which brought countless people to Christ.

According to the South Africa information website WikiMzansi, Zimu, born Moses Gcinumuzi at birth, “has undoubtedly earned a respect due to him from his colleagues as a multi-instrumentalist and an asset to any music project … be it be it as song writer, vocalist, sessionist or producer”.

He was raised in a small farm located in Sebokeng which is in the south of Johannesburg, his biography stated. As a child, he aspired to be a lawyer and a professional football player. Nevertheless, he started singing at six years and his musical career started in high school when he was discovered by a late friend. Sharing the word of God through singing gives him great joy. He enjoys reading the Bible, praying, and engaging in fellowship with other gospel artists, which has inspired and guided him in his everyday life.

His work in Christendom began in 1992 through several collaborations and involvements with various artistes before his long-awaited solo album ‘Excited’  was released in 2001.
Several great albums followed the last being ‘The Waiting is Over’ released in 2017.

Zimu’s mentor, the legendary Pastor Benjamin Dube once described him as ‘unparalleled’ twitted after news broke: “Our Sincere condolences to Dr. Neli Zimu and family. Our love and support goes to you.”

Ephraim Nsa wrote: “I know your destination is not farfetched. The Angels have received you already. You will just continue from where you stopped here on earth. This is a shock to the world and to the entire Spirit of Praise team S.A.”

Khanyi Magubane added: “Where does one start?! Pastor Neyi Zimu you have left us broken hearted and shattered! Thank you for your powerful ministry, for loving God, his people and giving it your all! Rest, Man Of God, Rest!”

And Thokozani Nkosi said: “Sad to hear of the passing of Pastor @NeyiZimuMusic. What a great talent; what a gentleman, what a loss. May his anointed music continue to positively impact lives for Christ for generations to come.”

He’s survived by his wife Dr Nellie Sibisi-Zimu and their three children.