Multi-award-winning gospel artist D-Naff, his wife Dainess Ziba, gospel star Lady Dyna and NamGospel United – a group consisting of various local gospel artists – have been nominated for the 24th edition of the Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards (TGMEA) 2022.
Founded by American Pastor Larry Davies, the awards recognise independent gospel artists in the state of Texas, United States of America, as well as artists across the globe.
D-Naff, real name Naftalie Amukwelele, told VIBEZ! it is the second international award in which he was nominated.
“The first one which was held in Washington DC not so long ago, gave me exposure to this one. I walked away with Best Inspirational and Life Coach awards in that one. This one just boosted the whole thing now. This means we (Namibia) are now recognised internationally, and that someone has noticed our work over here,” he said.
The ‘Oshagwana’ hitmaker is nominated in the Male Soloist of the Year category and Rap/Hip Hop/ Reggae Artist of the Year. Lady Dyna is nominated for the Female Artist of the Year category, while NamGospel United are in Duo/Group of the Year nomination.
D-Naff said these nominations mark the growth of his music label ‘D-Naff Entertainment’, under which Lady Dyna and NamGospel united are signed.
“We are not where we are supposed to be, but we are not where we were either. Namibia has been doing quite well this year from all kinds of competitions. I believe it is our time to shine,” he said.
In the same interview, he revealed they are fine-tuning albums for two of his artists and himself set to be released next year.
Themed ‘We are stronger together’, the TGMEA show is scheduled to be hosted from the 24th to 27th February 2022 in Houston, Texas.
The veteran singer is pleading with his fans to vote for him and his team.
Voting can be done on the TGMEA website and the deadline for voting is 04 December 2021.
“Fans, friends, and family can vote as many times as possible each day, but remember to vote for all categories. For a ballot to be complete, the voter must vote in all seven categories.
- ashikololo@nepc.com.na