From Rock Bottom to Redemption Song: Fabian Nathan's Testimony of God's Saving Grace

Loading player...
This episode features a powerful conversation with gospel artist Fabian Nathan, who shares his deeply personal journey from addiction to redemption through his faith. Fabian recounts how music was always central to his life, beginning with his mother's influence, but his path took a dark turn after her passing. His testimony of a life-changing spiritual experience that rescued him from drug addiction forms the foundation of his music ministry today, particularly his song "He's Been So Good To Me."
KEY TALKING POINTS
Early Musical Influences

Family foundation: Mother was a significant musical influence who sang and kept a songbook
First discovered singing talent in the bathroom at home
Mother heard him sing and encouraged his gift
Began singing in the youth choir at church around age 9-10
Started taking music seriously at age 19

Personal Struggles and Turning Point

Lost his mother to asthma when he was 17-19 years old
As the eldest of five siblings, struggled with responsibility
Went through a rebellious period and became addicted to drugs
Experienced a life-threatening moment while high on drugs
Had a spiritual awakening when he couldn't breathe and prayed for help
Made a promise to God to honor Him with his life if saved
Credits this moment as his turning point back to faith

Songwriting Process

Struggled to find the right words to express his gratitude to God
Connected with songwriter/producer Craig Piner through Facebook
Shared his testimony with Craig, who immediately captured the essence
Collaborated with saxophonist Manuel Jardine
Took approximately 1-1.5 months to complete the song

Current Work and Future Projects

Recently released song "He's Been So Good To Me" (translated from "Iqbal Eluwaf")
Currently working on a new song with Craig Piner
Recording expected to begin the following month
Married for two years and focused on ministry and music

Spiritual Reflections

Describes ministry as a "battle" and "war" against spiritual forces
Emphasizes the importance of Christians praying for one another
Speaks about maintaining an "attitude of gratitude"
Acknowledges that perfection isn't required, but rather living by God's grace

NOTABLE QUOTES

"I wouldn't be able to sing a song if I cannot connect with it. If it's not coming from my heart, I need to feel it."
"God's got His way of dealing with us individually on a personal level."
"If you wanna live, you need to pray."
"I promised God that if He saved me that night and allowed me to breathe, then I would bring honor to His name."
"You don't have any control over your breath. God can take your breath away at any time."
"We're in a war... the world expects us to be perfect, but we're not. We're here by the grace of God, and we need to pray for one another."
"We must continue to trust God to fulfill His will in our lives."

PRODUCTION NOTES

Episode showcases authentic testimony of transformation
Highlights the relationship between personal struggle and creative expression
Demonstrates how faith can bring someone through addiction
Shows the collaborative nature of gospel music creation
Features the story behind Fabian's song "He's Been So Good To Me"

TARGET AUDIENCE

Christians seeking inspiration through testimony
Those struggling with addiction or personal challenges
Gospel music fans and creators
Individuals interested in faith-based recovery stories
Young adults navigating difficult life transitions
14 May 2025 English South Africa Christianity · Religion & Spirituality

Other recent episodes

Standing Together: A Community's Response to Unthinkable Tragedy

In this deeply moving episode of Just Business on JustGospel, host Lindi Tshabangu addresses a heartbreaking tragedy that shook the community—the loss of thirteen young learners in a horrific scholar transport accident. What begins as a somber reflection transforms into a powerful testament to the strength of Ubuntu and collective…
20 Jan 15 min

Bridging Continents: The Power of Afro-Caribbean Cultural Exchange

In this compelling episode of Just Business on JustGospel, host Carlett Badenhorst connects with Honorable Quadri Aduke Kennedy, President of the Afro-Caribbean Chamber of Culture and Tourism, for an insightful conversation that spans from South Africa to Nigeria, exploring the vital intersection of culture, tourism, and entrepreneurship across the African…
20 Jan 28 min

From Classroom to Kingdom: Tshidi's Journey of Faith and Purpose

From Classroom to Kingdom: Tshidi's Journey of Faith and Purpose In this inspiring episode of JustGospel, host Carlett Badenhorst sits down with Tshidi Mogale, an educator whose journey from teacher to transformational leader reveals the power of divine calling and unwavering faith. Tshidi's story begins in the classroom, where she…
20 Jan 40 min

New Year, New Mindset: A Fresh Start with Purpose

In this inspiring New Year episode, host Lynette Badenhorst welcomes listeners into 2026 with a powerful message about embracing fresh beginnings through faith. Broadcasting from JustGospel's studios, Lynette explores what it truly means to step into a new season with intentionality and divine purpose. The conversation centers on breaking free…
6 Jan 32 min

The Power of a Name: Liabo Seto's SME Revolution

On JustGospel's Just Business with Lindi Tshabangu, SABC journalist and SME On Point producer Liabo Seto shared how her royal heritage, divine calling, and award-winning entrepreneurship segment are changing South African lives. Blue-Blooded Legacy "My name is Shays—I'm born of a chief in Lesotho, blue-blooded, a share of the Bakwena…
2 Dec 2025 17 min