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Sensational gospel ensemble Joyous Celebration has stood the test of time, releasing albums annually and consistently breaking boundaries in the recording industry with their live performances and DVD and CD recordings.
With a total of 25 live albums since 1997, Joyous Celebration has been able to keep to their signature of true South African praise and worship with traditional songs that have been sung in church for decades. They’ve composed fresh beloved hits while evolving with the ever-changing industry and audience. Here are some need-to-know Joyous facts:
1. Number of albums recorded
Joyous Celebration has recorded 22 albums to date. They are preparing to record their 23rd instalment live in Cape Town in December.
2. First live performance
The first live performance was at the Wits Great Hall in Johannesburg in 1996 for Joyous Celebration 1.
3. First album recorded
Joyous Celebration Volume 1 was recorded at DownTown Studios in Johannesburg after their very first concert, which was not recorded live. This was to thank the Lord for a smooth transition from the apartheid era into democracy. It was supposed to be a one-off show but people wanted more music. That is when the founding members got together and decided to go into studio to record the very first album, which they named Joyous Celebration.
4. Number of awards won
Joyous Celebration has won 25 awards to date.
5. It’s a first
The collective became the first South African Gospel ensemble to win four SA Music Awards (Samas) in the same year in the categories Best-Selling DVD of the Year, Best-Selling Album of the Year, Capasso Best-Selling Digital Download Composer’s Award and Best-Selling Digital Artist of the Year, all for Joyous Celebration Volume 21: Heal Our Land album.
6. First song recorded
It was a medley of gospel classics, including Come Let Us Worship, Walk In The Light and On The Glory Of Jesus. The medley featured artists such as pastor Benjamin Dube, Sibongile Khumalo, Sharon Dee and Family Factory.
7. Any unreleased songs?Nope! Zero! Joyous Celebration has no unreleased songs. They package all their recorded songs for consumption by their fans.
