WeeklySA_AdminDYNAMIC: New horizons beckon for the rising soul and jazz vocalist with wide-ranging blend of talents…
By Priscilla Malinga
Metro FM Awards, taking place at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga next Saturday, are poised to be a life-changing experience for newly nominated and rising artists who will be attending the event for the first time.
Being nominated as a new comer is viewed as an achievement especially for those who have been trying for ages to get their music played on radio, regarding the nomination as a defining stepping stone to their promising careers and an acknowledgement from the fans.
Neo Dube, the soul and jazz vocalist, has had an honour to be nominated for the Best Newcomer segment and, in a recent interview with Weekly SA Mirror, shared her feelings prior the big day.
Neo Dube, a multi-talented artist, blends the roles of musician, filmmaker, public relations and marketing strategist into a vibrant and unique creative career. Known for her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence, Neo captivates audiences with music that resonates deeply, offering a fusion of rich melodies and heartfelt storytelling.
With a strong foundation in the arts, Neo reflects her passion for authentic expression and her commitment to excellence through her work. Her music transcends genres, blending elements of gospel, soul, and contemporary sounds, making her a standout talent in South Africa’s music landscape.
Neo’s latest single, Indawenhle, is a testament to her peculiar artistry and versatility. The song, crafted with powerful lyrics and an uplifting rhythm, is a celebration of life, love, and faith. Already gaining traction on digital platforms, it is poised to make waves on radio as well.
In addition to her music, Neo is an award-winning filmmaker, whose work has been showcased at prestigious festivals, and a sought-after PR strategist who has successfully driven campaigns for major events and artists. Her creative endeavours collectively highlight her ability to tell compelling stories that inspire and connect.
Q. How does it feel to be nominated as the best newcomer artist?
A. It is definitely an incredible honour being recognised in these awards as it reassures me that my work is resonating with people. It is a humbling moment that motivates me to push forward and make music that connects to my audience. It feels amazing and surreal.
Q. How easy or difficult was it to get your music on radio?
A. It still is hard, it is not easy at all. I am still on my way to getting my music to play on radio. I believe it takes persistence and the right strategy and the team that believes in your work. Pushing and following up and building relationships in the industry had been undeniable. Creating music that listeners cannot ignore, and I do believe that my song and sounds are undeniable and I produce beautiful amazing good quality music.
Q. Will this be the first time you attend the awards?
A. Yes, it will be my first time and I am excited to be a part of this prestigious event, and being among such talented musicians and creators is quiet inspiring, and I am just going to be so happy being there.
Q. What are you looking forward to?
A. I am looking forward to the experience and celebrating with other artists and industry people, and the moment when they announce the winner and hoping it’s me. But, overall being in the room with everybody is going to be a win for me and how being nominated is going to be such an achievement.
Q. Any other nominations?
A. Right now my focus is on the best newcomer nomination but, we obviously don’t know what the future holds as it is just the beginning. In the future I am hoping to get more nominations
Q. What does this mean for your career?
A. It’s definitely a game changer, being nominated puts a spotlight on my work and introduces me to new audiences, and also validates what work has gone into my music. I see it as a stepping stone to bigger opportunities as well.
Q. Whereto from here?
A. This nomination has given me motivation to keep creating and performing and reaching new heights in my career, I’m definitely going to be creating more music and there will be more growth and more impact and I’m excited for the future.
Q. Any advice for those wishing to be nominated for the award?
I would say that you just stay true to your sound and keep pushing no matter what. I am saying you must stay true to your sound simply because, we sometimes feel unnecessary pressure of compromising and changing our sound to stay relevant, or set in a current time. You mustn’t rush into other people’s timelines, and you must stay in your lane and stand your ground, and eventually your time will come for your recognition. Consistency, quality and authenticity are key, also believe in your craft and never stop working on i
Meanwhile, much anticipated by many South Africans is which record is selected “the Song of the Year”, for which the following artist have been nominated:
Blaq Major Ft. Bless The Gentleman & Dj Kap for Sdakiwe Sbali, Makhadzi; Prince Benza; Iyanya for Number 1, WOODBLOCK DJS ft Buzzi Lee, Kane Keid, Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, Tony Dayimane for SKUTA BABA Remix, Felo Le Tee, Scotts Maphuma & ThabzaTee feat. DJ Maphorisa & Djy Biza for Yebo Lapho (Gogo), and Bassie, M-Touch, Ranger, Amaza ft. TmanXpress, LeemcKrazy for Kwelanga 2.0.
These nominations feature music singles and albums released between February 28 2024 and 28
February 28 2025. This year, the station received an impressive 2769 entries across 19 categories – a significant increase from last year’s 1 700 entries.
