WeeklySA_AdminBACKGROUNDER: Singer-cum-songwriter wallows into new role of being in charge of her own destiny…
By Gugu Sibiya
After years of working with exceptional musicians, Nomabotwe has finally stepped to the front, blowing the socks off crowds with her debut offering.
Emboldened by her newly dropped album Hamba Ungemi, the singer and songwriter is loving Aladdin’s cave she’s gifting music lovers from. Not to mention the spotlight with its many possibilities that may propel her music to the top.
“I had a huge collection of songs I had been writing since 2016. Although I didn’t have the foggiest idea how I was going to put them into an album, I was convinced it was time. I roped in a producer who was willing to work within my limitations. The result is this beautiful work that’s captivating audiences who’ve heard it” she says proudly.
“I penned the title track in 2019 while going through the most. Though I felt I had something to offer the world, my career hadn’t taken off. The lyrics are motivational. It’s about starting and keep going until realizing goals. It’s a beacon of hope that’s about brightening the way for artists wanting to get ahead in lthe industry. It’s about giving us go getters the impetus to keep us going” enthuses the fired up Nomabotwe.
Chomping at the beat, the songstress reveals that she’s hitting the road. “In May we’re taking Cape Town by storm. We will be performing at the Homecoming Centre, Star theatre, District Six in Cape Town, on Saturday, May 3.
After breezing through eKapa, we’ll be ready to conquer Monti (East London) for a show at the Guild theatre, Selborne, on Saturday, May 10. Tickets cost cost R250 at quicket.
“Not only am I itching to share my repertoire, showcase my talent but wish to connect with audiences to get my music out there.
The Eastern Cape beauty from Gqeberha whose name means palace, is not a newbe in showbiz. “I was a backing singer for the late Stompie Mavi. He may have been on a wheel chair but had stage presence, a commanding voice and a strong personality. I learnt a lot about resilience, determination and conquering big dreams.
“I’ve worked with Ringo for a long time. It’s nonetheless no walk in the park with gigs far and few apart. Doing my thing on my own is a challenge I’m up to.
I’m loving the experience, enjoying the recognition as a recording artist and promoters ocasssionally beating a path to my door.
Performing at MXO’s fest in East London was a cherry on top” says the Afro soul singer adamant God’s been good to her.
“I’m preparing for my shows, itching to share my repertoire, showcase my talent, creating memories for revelers and promoting Hamba Ungemi. Aside from all music platforms, I’m blessed to be played on Umhlobo Wenene and Radio 000.
Packing my shows to the rafters and collaborating with king Tha, the amazing Thandiswa Mazwai are my dreams. She’s exceptional.
