SAMA-nominated singer-songwriter Ndu Shezi has opened up about the faith, culture and personal journey behind her latest single, Gugu Lami, in an interview with BONA.
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The soulful release is rooted in Ndu’s relationship with God and reflects the role faith has consistently played in her music and life.
‘The song was dropped in my spirit’
Speaking to BONA, Ndu explained that the song did not come from a traditional moment of inspiration but came to her while she was preparing for an upcoming show.
“I wasn’t inspired per se, but the song was dropped in my spirit as I was preparing for an upcoming show.”
Faith has remained a central theme throughout Ndu’s musical journey, with the singer describing it as the foundation of everything she does.
“My relationship with God means everything. The lyrics paint a clear picture and give meaning to that,” she told BONA.
The song’s title, which translates to “my treasure,” captures the depth of that relationship.
“‘You are my treasure, from high up above.’ We have been given a gift to all mankind, who came to this earth to die for us and give us life eternally.”
Ndu Shezi embraces her roots
Alongside faith, Ndu’s cultural identity continues to influence her artistry.
The Durban-born singer has consistently incorporated Zulu influences into her music, and she says her connection to her heritage is something she carries with pride.
“My love for my culture and tradition will always come through in my music. You just can’t hide your roots, can you?” she said. “But I am someone who embraces my background with pride, everywhere I go.”
For Ndu, culture naturally forms part of her identity as an artist and finds its way into the music she creates.
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A SAMA nomination marks a milestone
Ndu’s musical journey also reached an important milestone with her debut album Isibusiso Sami earning a SAMA nomination for Best African Adult Contemporary.
Speaking to BONA, Ndu described the recognition as a reflection of the hard work she has put into her craft over the years.
“The SAMA nod came as a recognition of all the hard work I’ve put into my craft over the years.”
From being mentored by industry giants to releasing a debut album that received recognition at the South African Music Awards, Ndu says the nomination reassured her that she is on the right path.
“It just says to me I’m going in the right direction and I’m doing something worth noticing.”
Music as a source of healing
Beyond accolades and personal milestones, Ndu hopes her music can connect with audiences regardless of where they come from or what language they speak.
“I believe music transcends borders and language barriers,” she told BONA.
Her ultimate hope is that her music can offer listeners something meaningful during different seasons of their lives.
“My hope would be that my music is a channel for someone to believe again, to trust again, to love again.”
Ndu added that she wants her music to ultimately become a source of joy, love and healing for those who listen.
With Gugu Lami, Ndu continues to bring together faith, heritage and personal expression while carving out her own space in South Africa’s music landscape.
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