South Africa’s music scene is filled with many talented vocalists from every kind of genre, from R&B ranging all the way to house and amapiano which have propelled mzansi’s music scene to unchartered heights. A group we hardly recognise are our celebrities who are famous for one thing but have some impressive vocal pipes at their disposal.
Here is a list of prominent figures with a ‘hidden’ singing talent:
1. Zola Nombona
Stepping into the acting scene fresh from the popular acting competition ‘Class Act’, the former BONA Magazine cover star has made a name for herself in the industry for her ability to adapt any character’s personality and make it her own. Many know Zola for her various roles on the big screen such as her most recent Fakazile on My Brother’s Keeper, however, many do not know that Zola is quite the singer.
Although her music career is not as prominent as her acting, Zola has a few songs out including some with popular producers. Her catalogue includes a collaboration with Mobi Dixon’s River Flow, as well as a soundtrack from the series Lockdown which she also featured in.
2. Motlatsi Mafatshe
It might be because we are so used to seeing Motlatsi on our screens as an actor, but it is hard to imagine him as a vocalist, and although singing does not have a specific look, we don’t believe that the popular actor gives off singer vibes.
One of Motlatsi’s songs includes a group collaboration with Khaya Mthethwa, Zakes Banwtini, Xolani Sithole, Mbuso Khoza, Dumi Mkokstand and many more which aimed at raising awareness against gender-based violence.
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3. Zozibini Tunzi
When Zozibini spoke of taking up space in 2019 during her time in the Miss Universe pageant, she meant it as the former Miss Universe has proven to be a jack of all trades. Not only is she a world-renowned model, actress and activist, but Zozi is also quite the singer.
Her vocal abilities were on full display during her time on the popular TV show The Masked Singer SA as the ‘robot’ in last year’s season.
This video of @zozitunzi WILL make you smile!!! ??? Maybe even shed a tear…a happy one though. Thank you for being the sun Zozi. Your voice is so beautiful! As is your smile, as is your spirit. Oohhhh MamTolo! ????❤️ pic.twitter.com/d9BPyvFT8B
— Hulisani Ravele (@HulisaniRavele) March 21, 2020
3. Ntobeko Sishi
This might not come as a surprise to many as Ntobeko’s music career is taking off as he brings a unique, mellow sound that is not too mainstream in South Africa.
Ntobeko, who goes by Sishi shares his music on his social media pages for his supporters to enjoy and join him on the journey that is art.
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4. Shudufhadzo Musida
It can’t be a coincidence that both Zozibini and Shudufhadzo are secret songbirds and former Miss SAs, it has to be a prerequisite to winning the coveted pageant right?
Similarly to Zozi, Shudu participated in The Masked Singer SA which is where a majority of mzansi found out she could sing. Her time on the competition show gave her well-needed confidence and she has expressed the possibility of pursuing a music career officially.
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5. Sicelo Buthelezi
Sicelo, whose alias is Seekay is another breakthrough artist who has found the balance between acting and music.
Unlike his friend and fellow Gomora co-star Ntobeko, Seekay’s sound is more commercial, leaning more towards the amapiano or ‘private school’ yanos that have taken South Africa and the rest of the world by storm.
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Also see: Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng paying it forward in honour of her 58th birthday
