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Trending in Shipho Makhabane’s World
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Story
Quick Facts
Born
1965
1965
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Sipho Makhabane, affectionately known as "The Big Fish," is a pioneer who transformed the landscape of South African gospel music. Born on September 3, 1965, in the Mpumalanga province, Makhabane’s early life was defined by extreme hardship. Following the death of his father, he left school prematurely to support his family, working various manual labor jobs. However, his spiritual calling was undeniable, and he spent his spare time honing his vocal craft. His breakthrough in the mid-1990s marked the arrival of a voice that would provide comfort and inspiration to millions.
Makhabane’s discography is a testament to his longevity, featuring multi-platinum albums such as "Ebenezer," "Umuzi Omuhle," and "Hamba Nami." His songs, including "The Devil Is A Liar" and "Indonga," are celebrated for their traditional rhythmic foundations and powerful messages of faith. However, his legacy is perhaps most defined by his role as a music mogul. By founding Big Fish Music, he became a kingmaker in the genre, discovering and grooming artists like Lundi Tyamara and Sechaba Pali. His ability to spot raw talent and turn it into national stardom earned him the ultimate respect of his peers.
In 2010, at the peak of his career, he held a high-profile retirement concert at the Pretoria State Theatre to pivot toward full-time talent management and ministry. His life took a dramatic turn in late 2014 when he was involved in a horrific car crash that left him in critical condition. His "miraculous" recovery only served to strengthen his bond with his audience, who viewed his survival as a testament to the faith he sings about. Today, Makhabane continues to lead both as a pastor and an industry veteran, ensuring that the next generation of African gospel voices has a platform to be heard.