A TikTok user from the United States has sparked laughter among South Africans by discussing an unusual childhood fear of South African gospel music.
The individual, who goes by @callmepba on TikTok, posted a video where he reflected on how certain gospel melodies from South Africa frightened him during his youth.
He noted that it was not just the music that was unsettling, but also the rich harmonies and profound vocals that contributed to his discomfort.
He expressed that the songs seemed almost ritualistic, with their tempo and vocal structure evoking apprehension instead of solace.
His description of the music as “nightmare fuel” resonated with many South Africans, who responded in the comments with laughter, nostalgia, and surprisingly, affirmation.
Numerous viewers recognized the style he was referencing, particularly pointing to the renowned gospel ensemble Amadodana Ase Wesile.
This group is celebrated for its powerful, bass-oriented harmonies and emotionally charged performances, which some say can be overwhelming to those not accustomed to them.
One viewer suggested: “Look up for this song (Ndi ngene e dumisweni). This is the song he is talking about.”
Others recounted similar experiences from their own childhoods.
One comment stated: “I know what you are talking about, my mom loves South African gospel, especially the men with the deep voice that sound like they’re in a cave 😂.”
Another user shared a memory: “There was a road trip where my aunt played that kind of gospel because all the kids were sleeping; did the song not wake up the babies in a crying panic😭😭 that harmonising is too much sometimes (I’m South African).”
Some participants indicated that the emotional gravity of the music significantly affects its reception.
“It’s the grief in their voices, they went through so much,” remarked one person, while another noted that many of the songs are frequently linked to funerals, enhancing the haunting quality.
The gospel legend Rebecca Malope also came up in discussions, with one user humorously commenting: “I just remembered, my brother had nightmares about Rebecca Malope back in the day😭.”
While a few commenters debated the intent behind the American’s viewpoints, the majority found humor in the sharing.
Watch video below:
@callmepba It just felt off to me as a kid 😭😭😭 #fyp #foryoupage #southafrica 🎶 original sound – PBA
