A Song Born From Bible Verses Turned Into An Inspirational Song

Ashley Nkiwane "OWENKOSI"

Posted By Ntombizodwa Dlamini I Mondays Mag Publications I Featuring Ashley

Image courtesy: Ashley Nkiwane

"It is a gift from me to you." Says Nkiwane.

For Ashley Nkiwane, music is more than melody. It is prayer, healing and testimony. Nkiwane, singer-songwriter originally from Zimbabwe has officially introduced herself to the public with her debut release, OWENKOSI, a deeply personal song inspired by the biblical story of David and his journey of overcoming impossible odds through faith. While it may be her first public release, the song represents years of personal growth, spiritual reflection and artistic preparation.

A Song Born Through Prayer and Scripture

The roots of OWENKOSI were planted during a season of prayer and fasting. Nkiwane says she spent time studying the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, carefully taking notes and reflecting on the scriptures. "It was during a period of prayer and fasting that I chose the book of Samuel," she said.

"Through taking down notes, I believe the Holy Spirit gave me the melody and the word became my reference and experience."

At the heart of the song is a simple but powerful message: victory belongs to those who trust in God. The title itself carries deep meaning for the artist.

"OweNkosi means I am God's own," Nkiwane shares that through life's seasons and episodes, every time serves as a testament of His goodness. With Gods love she is assured every time when doubt creeps in. The song lays a foundation of God’s grace and testament.

Finding Strength Through Personal Loss

While the song draws heavily from the story of David and Goliath, it is also rooted in Nkiwane's own experiences. Finding Strength Through Personal Loss One of the most defining moments of her life was the loss of her father, a man she describes as her protector and hero. "Most of my life I had a dad who looked out for me, my hero," she says. "But due to the unfortunate death, I thought and felt alone at the same time, like who will shield me. And God had His own way of showing up and reassuring me that it is well." That journey of grief, faith and reassurance became a central thread throughout OWENKOSI. The song reminds listeners that even when circumstances appear overwhelming, they are not fighting alone. "Through God you have conquered," she says, describing the message she hopes audiences will take away from the music. One lyric in particular holds special significance for her: "Uza kimi ngenkemba nokhonto nje, kodwa mina ngiza ngegama likaJehova onamandla wonke."

Translated into English, the line means: "You come against me with sword and spear, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty." For Nkiwane, these words represent the ultimate source of strength. "It shows the power that the Lord's name has in taking down giants. He is faithful. The songwriting process itself was remarkably organic. While reading scripture, she heard a melody in her mind and immediately recorded it before it disappeared. "I heard a melody in my mind that I then recorded so that I don't forget, because I have a tendency to," she recalls with a laugh. She later picked up her guitar, found the accompanying chords and began building the song around the powerful declaration from David's encounter with Goliath.

A Journey Filled With Delays and Perseverance

Yet bringing OWENKOSI to life was far from easy. What began as an idea in January eventually became a six-month journey filled with delays, setbacks and personal challenges. Production schedules shifted, circumstances changed and patience was tested. "At some point, if not frequently, I felt emotions of letting go of it," she admits. "I even asked myself if I had to do it." The project was initially developed with producer SpiritZw before later involving Nigel Nyangombe, who contributed additional ideas and handled the mixing process. While both producers helped shape the final sound, the road to release remained difficult. "The process did cause me even depression at some point," Nkiwane reveals. "But in good time it came to pass."

Today, those struggles have become part of the song's testimony.

Healing Through Music - Musically, OWENKOSI offers a reflective and intimate listening experience. Nkiwane describes it as music designed to heal and speak directly to the soul. "I have come to embrace my sound when singing in my native father tongue, Ndebele, however that has tweaks of Zulu expression as well," she says.

A Musical Journey Years in the Making

The release also marks a significant milestone in a musical journey that began long before streaming platforms and studio sessions. Nkiwane remembers singing alone in the shower while relatives complained about the noise. Her talent was eventually recognised by the late Alex Granger, who featured her on his Speak to My Heart album. Over the years, she performed with several groups including Focus Accapella, Celeste Music, In Accord and The Vine. She also earned recognition as a Top Five finalist in the Art of Health competition. When members of Focus Accapella relocated to Turkey, Nkiwane began focusing more intentionally on her solo career.

"I became more intentional about creating a sound that works for me," she says. Her motivation remains deeply personal. "As much as it is healing the one that listens, it also heals me too," she explains. "It's one of the best ways I love and feel more connection with my Lord."

A Song That Is Already Touching Lives

The response to OWENKOSI has already exceeded her expectations. "Honestly, it's humbling," she says. "When someone confirms how the song has a healing element and how moved they are when listening." Some listeners may not understand the Ndebele lyrics, but according to Nkiwane, the emotional impact remains universal. "Some listeners may not know what the song means, but it still has the same effect, if not more." Asked who she believes will connect most strongly with the song, Nkiwane points again to David's story. "The one that constantly needs reassurance should find solace in the character David, because he was constantly hindered," she says.

"No matter who you are, it all works out at the end despite the outcome."

Staying True to Herself - In an industry often driven by trends and imitation, Nkiwane is committed to authenticity. "I am Ashley Nkiwane and there will never be another," she says confidently. "It only gets better with time." For her, authenticity is the very thing that attracts an audience. "I think being who you are finds an audience. So I give what I am, and if it finds you and speaks to you then we're good."

Looking Ahead....

Looking ahead, the singer sees OWENKOSI as the beginning of something much bigger. The song signals a new direction for Nkiwane on her music journey. She says since she has started there’s no turning back. Fans can expect more music, more performances and more opportunities to experience the heartfelt storytelling that defines her artistry. "More music, reach more people, spread love through more melodies from the soul," she says. As for this current chapter of her career?

Nkiwane sums it up in five simple words: "I have been waiting too."

And for everyone who has supported her journey so far, she has one final message:

"Firstly, thank you for your support. You rock! Stay amazing! Ungowesikhoni — you are of royalty. Best believe it." With OWENKOSI, Ashley Nkiwane has offered more than a song. She has offered a testimony — a gift forged through faith, perseverance and the belief that even the smallest among us can overcome giants.

As she puts it herself:

"It is a gift from me to you."

Story From Ashely

Interviewed by Ntombizodwa Dlamini

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South Africa, 2026