Anele Dladla, popularly known as Dladla Mshunqisi, is a performing artist from N section in KwaMashu, KwaZulu Natal.
Dladla Mshunqisi’s exaggerated and catchy voice gimmicks in popular house songs, such as Omunye by Distruction Boys featuring Benny Maverick, have made him a firm favourite in the party scene. He recalls that as a little boy, he was always friendly. It is no surprise then that kids loved coming to his house to play. “I’ve always been a people’s person; I enjoy making them laugh and seeing them happy,” he says. He believes that his outgoing and humble personality helped open doors for him in the music industry. “I’m blessed to have collaborated with amazing artists such as DJ Tira, Professor and Tipcee, among others.”
1. Bitten by the music bug
Dladla Mshunqisi’s love for music was evident from a young age because he sang in the KwaMashu Christian Centre church choir. He believes that doing this every Sunday helped to sharpen his music skills and keep him out of trouble. “Back then, I just enjoyed singing and never thought that it would turn into a career.” The older he grew, the more he started experimenting with his voice and doing quirky gimmicks and expressions at community functions. “I was surprised that people loved hearing my vocal gimmicks. As a result, they have become a huge part of my music,“ he says. Growing up in a township where music was always playing in the streets also contributed to his love for the house genre. “I’m glad that church exposed me to gospel and the streets introduced me to house music. I am the musician I am today because of these influences,” he says proudly.
SEE ALSO: Out and about in Katlehong with Kwesta
2. Home is where the heart is
“I love that people in KwaMashu don’t care whether you are rich or poor; everyone is treated with respect,” the musician says. The crime in the township has not stopped him from living there, spending time with family or hanging out with friends at the Wiseman Car Wash and Shisa Nyama. “It’s frustrating to see young people turning to crime because of unemployment. That is why I support local businesses so that they can create jobs,” he says. This hardworking musician has not forgotten where he comes from. And every year, he donates school shoes to disadvantaged children in the township. “I’m planning on giving back even more because that is important to me.”
3. More music loading
Dladla Mshunqisi has more to offer, and plans on becoming an internationally recognised artist. His debut album titled Umshunqo was released last year. He plans on releasing a single later this year before his second album this year. “I’m excited about growing my music career, and I’m working hard to release more music,” he concludes.
