From Retirement to Recognition: A Call That Changed Everything
For Bruce “Dope” Sebitlo, the thought of stepping away from music after decades in the industry seemed like the right decision—until a phone call turned everything upside down. The Kwaito legend, half of the iconic duo Brothers of Peace (BOP), revealed how Yvonne Chaka Chaka’s team informed him of his lifetime achievement award at the Backing Vocalist and Session Musicians Awards (BVSMA), hosted at the Soweto Theatre.
“I literally decided that I’d never do music anymore, wanting to quit and do something different,” Sebitlo shared during his emotional acceptance speech. “Then I received the call from mam’Yvonne’s team…this, to me, is a good sign from God, telling me that you’re not going anywhere.” The audience erupted in applause, affirming the impact of the moment.
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Honouring the Unsung Heroes
The BVSMA, founded by Yvonne Chaka Chaka, celebrates the often-overlooked contributors to South African music—the backing vocalists, session musicians, and producers whose artistry forms the backbone of the country’s soundscape.
Sebitlo’s award marks his first-ever formal recognition, despite a career spanning more than 30 years and collaborations with some of the nation’s biggest names, including Brenda Fassie, Black Coffee, Boom Shaka, Bongo Maffin, Mafikizolo, Trompies, and Alaska.
“This has been my first award ever,” he said, visibly moved. “I’ve never received any.”
A Family Legacy in Music
Gratitude was a recurring theme in Sebitlo’s speech. He credited his late grandmother for instilling a love of music in the family. “Each and every person in our family had to play some sort of instrument. I play the keyboard, my auntie did ballet, my cousins played violin…music was in our blood,” he explained.
He also thanked mentors and peers, including Oskido, Mahoota, Spikiri, the late Mjokes, and Don Laka, describing them as his “second family” for guiding him through the industry.
Celebrating South African Talent
Other award recipients included Thasman for Digital Session Musician, Buhle Nhlangulela for Gospel Music, Mulalo Mukwevho for Reggae Music, Mimi Mtshali for Jazz Vocalist, and Thatohatsi for Rookie Vocalist.
Yvonne Chaka Chaka expressed her pride in the event:
“This has been an incredible day of celebration of local music. It was heart-warming to witness these incredible artists being honoured for what they contributed to the industry.”
Sebitlo’s story serves as a reminder that even seasoned artists can find renewed purpose when acknowledged—not just for their hits, but for decades of dedication behind the scenes.
Source: The Citizen
Featured Image: X{@Brucedopey}
