JEFFREY Nkosi's multi-octave singing range has taken him to the brink of stardom with a flurry of appearances in churches and at events.

Though Nkosi started his career as an Afro-pop singer in 2005 with an album Busi Nguwe, the singer's love has always been for gospel music.

With his satin-smooth voice and easygoing delivery, Nkosi's talent was evident at an early age.

His singing ability gained strength and range as he listened to the music of gospel greats such as Solly Mahlangu and Benjamin Dube.

The singer says though he has sung gospel from an early age, listening to secular musicians helped shape his singing talent.

"My calling was preaching the gospel through music. I grew up in a church-going home where I was encouraged to be involved in the worship team by my parents.

"At nine my parents began to share my talent with the community, allowing me to enter music competitions around Mpumalanga," Nkosi says .

The buzz around this young musical genius grew as he received invites to sing in events and be a guest artist in churches.

However, it wasn't until after his recent second album, Khuluma Moya, that his star shone brighter.

The 22-year-old electrical engineering graduate from Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga, says with this 12-track album he aims to bring hope to those listening to his music.

The stirring songs and singing style appeal to both Christian and secular audiences who are easily drawn in by the authentic expression of Nkosi's love for God.

"I wanted to inject a feel-good spirit in people. These days there is a lot of negativity surrounding us. People need to listen to something inspirational at the same time connect with the Creator," the singer says.