Musician Langa Mavuso chats to us about his love for the stage and the inspiration behind his music. By Kwanele Mathebula
Image: Langa Mavuso IG
I was born and bred in Johannesburg. I was an energetic and outgoing child who enjoyed playing a lot. It was there where my imagination was stretched. I also asked a lot of questions, which I still do. As a child, I always knew that I wanted to be an entertainer. The stage was where I’ve always wanted to be even before I knew I could sing.
My first true taste of being on stage was in high school. I attended National School of the Arts where I performed every chance I could get. I participated in everything from musicals to plays to tribute shows. Being part of these productions meant that I spent most of my weekends and holidays in rehearsals. This helped build the discipline I needed to pursue my passion, especially to get through some of the hardships.
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I got into the music industry through singing for rapper Spoek Mathambo. I found his email address at the bottom of a newspaper article I’d read about him and emailed him a few voice notes of me singing. He responded months later and I began working with him.
My music is inspired by my life experiences. I am also inspired by all the musicians I grew up listening to such as Caiphus Semenya, Donny Hathaway, Ringo Maxwell and many others. The best part of making music is seeing it become a part of someone else’s story. It’s been an incredible honour to see people take my music and make it their own. It means you become the soundtrack to a memory that you never actually took part in. It’s an amazing gift that I am grateful for.
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In my spare time I enjoy reading books and hanging out with my friends. I’m a Joburger so we’re always out for lunch or seeing our favourite artists. I also attend a lot of music shows and gallery exhibitions. It reminds me to continue to work hard and strive for more. I’m currently working on album and I hope that I’ll be able to finish it soon so I can share it with everyone who loves my music, and solidify what I’m about as a musician to all who give me a chance.
