Award-winning musician Mbuso Khoza chats to us about his career and plans for 2019. By Kwanele Mathebula
Image: Mbuso Khoza IG
My fondest memories with music are from my childhood. The late-night rehearsals in preparation for umemulo (traditional Zulu coming of age ceremony for women) or weddings where the community would gather every evening and sing. This made us African the makers of music, not just consumers.
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Composing and recording in studio is what I love most about creating music. Watching something grow from nothing to a huge fruitful tree that becomes a scroll of the nation makes me proud. Through music, I bare my soul to the world not only to entertain, but also to heal.
My career highlights include winning the Contemporary Jazz Album award at the 2013 Metro FM Awards. This award was recognition for my debut album, Zilindile. This is special because I didn’t submit the album for this category which means the judges found it on their own and enjoyed it. I also treasure the experience of being featured on, Jazz legend, Themba Mkhize’s album.
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I am excited about the first-ever The Battle of Isandlwana Musical Lecture. I have a passion for preserving heritage and culture. And, it gives me great pleasure to host the lecture that commemorates an important moment in our history. We’re bringing it to the Joburg Theatre which is befitting because it was not only a Zulu victory, but that of the nation. The lecture will take place on 25th January 2019.
I plan to release my new album this year. After the success of my debut album, I am looking forward to having new music out. I have also established a non-profit organisation called Legacy of KZN Mentorship Program and Academy. Here, we focus on producing quality artists and not just hitmakers.
