She settled down in her living room with her family like scores of fellow South Africans to listen to the president address the country on the latest lockdown regulations. And when Cyril Rama phosa called on the nation to take up the Jerusalema challenge this Heritage Day, Nomcebo Zikode leapt off the couch, tears welling in her eyes.
Even though the song has spawned a dance craze among young and old in Spain, Canada, Jamaica and Italy, the president’s shoutout was particularly meaningful.
“This isn’t usual – there are many people who wish for this to happen to them, but it happened to me and Master KG,” she gushes.
Nomcebo is one half of the duo behind the global phenomenon. Since its release earlier this year, Jerusalema has struck a chord with people all over the globe – and the upbeat gospel-inspired hit is getting everyone from Palestine to Port Elizabeth dancing (YOU, 13 August).
Similar to the Macarena, the song has spawned a global dance craze, with everyone from US singer Janet Jackson and Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo getting in on the challenge.
Nomcebo (35) couldn’t have imagined the track would blow up this big. “Every day we see the Jerusalema dance challenge, we see schools, policemen, people in government and retail stores – I don’t know who else to count – just everyone doing the dance,” she says.
“We’ve seen people around the world dance to the challenge but at home, we’ve felt the love.”
Though it’s become a global anthem, there’s been quite a bit of talk on social media around whether she’s getting the recognition she deserves. But Nomcebo, who wrote the moving lyrics to Master KG’s song, isn’t letting it get to her.
This story is from the 1 October 2020 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 1 October 2020 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE MICHAEL'S ANGELS
The king of pop's kids are a close-knit trio who guard their privacy fiercely
BARBIES ON THE GO!
Sending their dolls 'travelling' around the country started as way to escape everyday life during the pandemic and four years later they're still going strong
THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
These musician decided to pack up their lives and trek across the country - with three kids in tow!
TALES FROM THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR
After 40 years in Tinseltown, filmmaker Ed Zwick is spilling the beans about the stars with the biggest egos in his tell-all memoir - and he doesn't regret a thing
India's national election
SOUTH Africa isn't the only country holding an election this year - America and India, among others, are also heading to the polls. Most countries hold elections every five years, and it typically takes place one day before the votes are counted.
IS YOUR BRA HARMING YOUR HEALTH?
Wearing the wrong bra size can cause more than discomfort - a poor fit can lead to bigger problems
MY STORY IS ONE OF HOPE
She was born with a rare condition that affects her muscles but it hasn't stopped Kerry from getting a degree or writing a book
DEATH FROM ABOVE
Drones, like the one used to kill seven aid workers in Gaza, are becoming common in battlefields
FINALLY I'M FREE
IT STARTED innocently enough, with a Bible study group, scripture readings and prayers in the suburbs of Centu rion.
CONJOINED IN HOLY MATRIMONY
Abby and Brittany have again sparked public interest after Abby's 2021 wedding recently made headlines