WeeklySA_AdminSOLID:Tenacious Sofaya makes waves in Afropop arena…
By Gugu Sibiya
Sofaya is the name currently on industry insiders’ lips, and now that she’s dropped her sizzling debut offering Impumelelo, she’s likely to cement her vocal cred by dominating the airwaves this summer.
Walking on cloud nine following the mind-blowing reception to the release of the three-single Impumelelo, Thetha and Le Meko with a video, Sofaya believes that her tenacity and belief in God has finally been rewarded.
“There was a time when my prospects were so bleak it seemed this day would never come. God has held my hand walking this path with me. That people have been receptive to Impumelelo and its video and Thetha, is amazing. Le Meko and its video is relatively new but already making waves. I’ve put everything in it. I just enjoy the love and attention the songs are getting,” says the Afropop sensation who’s finally landed on solid ground.
“Impumelelo is a declaration of the success I’m enjoying and my arrival musically! It encapsulates my dreams and aspirations. I can’t forget my trials and tribulations, they keep me grounded.
‘’It’s a journey that has culminated with these beautiful, surreal moments. All the hours I’ve put into each song. Not only did I pour my heart and soul into each, but I’m going to mesmerize my audience with my brand of Afropop like I always do on stage” says the phenomena whose stage prowess dominates conversations long after lights out.
‘’My performances are something else, yet that didn’t stop skeptics from assuming I’d never make the cut. Putting myself out there long before I dropped the CD, has enabled me to hone my skill and connect with crowds. I’m confident and in tune with my craft. So, I dedicate my album to the naysayers and prophets of doom and gloom. They’ll never take my glory!
“I’ve been intentional with this journey, hence the EP I dropped in EP in 2017. I’m excited to say it went a long way towards putting me on the musical landscape with songs like Umuntu, Soka Lam, Fireworks, Dance with Me and Man Down.”
The gifted Sofaya’s musical journey wasn’t always as clear-cut, as it is today.
“That’s true but after exploring various genres, I’m glad for those experiences. That includes working with Kwesta, Yanga Chief and Stilo Magolide on urban music, as well as featuring on Tuks Senganga’s project. It was awesome. It crystalised my aspiration which has led me to this great place. Everything is aligning beautifully.
I’m no longer just chasing success but delivering a sterling product now that I’ve found my niche,” Sofaya states.
Aimated she adds: “Working with big wig producers like Mojakes Thebe and David Muthandi, was a cherry on the cake. I really wanted to work with Robby Malinga, but he sadly passed away.” There’s no doubt that the late producer would have been proud of her.
“Talent like Thami Dineka, who co-wrote most of the songs with me, is a gem. He’s not only the love of my life, but has been a pillar of strength, personally, musically and co-owns our label with me, Red Chronicle Entertainment. He’s helped me to stay authentic to Afropop. We work well together,” Sofaya rolls up her eyes, cooing like only a besotted woman can.
“Showbiz is a tough-as-teak industry. As a young woman starting out, you encounter a lot of obstacles. If it’s not the gate keepers who are the first hurdles if you don’t belong to certain circles, then it’s the big, bad wolves. They promise you the moon and the stars only if you give them what they want. Working as an independent artist, is tough and expensive,” Sofaya says, revealing the nasty realities of showbiz.
“You get tempted to take the short cut, but then family values kick in and what you witness happening to other girls, dissuades you. It’s 10 years later, but here I am, with my head held high. God will never forsake you. He will make a way for you, just like He did for me and many other frightened girls,” advises the lady who did it her way and has a T-shirt to show for it.
“I’m currently promoting my singles but I’ll be releasing my CD, Impumelelo, next year. For those coming into the industry or those losing hope that it’s not happening soon enough, trust in your talent and strength”.
