Jazz musician Zoe Modiga chats to us about her riveting music. By Kwanele Mathebula
I was born in Kwa Zulu-Natal. I am a coastal girl but grew up in many parts of South Africa because my family moved around a lot. As a child, making music was my biggest aspiration. I wanted to reach and move people through music with every fibre of my being. My family’s eclectic and diverse taste in music influenced me a lot.
I went on to study music in order to pursue my dream of making music. I attended the National School of Arts in Johannesburg where I studied classical piano, clarinet and vocals. I then went to study Jazz vocals at the South African College of Music at the University of Cape Town.
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My debut album Yellow – The Novel was inspired by real life and people. I am constantly taken aback by how people have taken me and my music as a part of their lives. That feeling never gets old and it warms my heart. I hope to outlive the impact my music has the potential to make and I feel like that is happening.
I found out about the SAMA nominations when I was on stage. A friend of mine whispered the news to me while we were performing. I couldn’t even react; I think I am still trying to find a way to process the news. I’m truly thankful and humbled. There is something to be said about being seen by the people you wish to affect. It is truly rewarding to be nominated among people I look up to. It affirms me about being on the right path.
I am performing at the UJ Weekend of Jazz this weekend (26-27 May) and I am excited. I am looking forward to seeing the crowd’s reaction to my music and performance. It is going to be explosive!
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This year I want to make magic. I am excited to have my fans and people in general follow me on my journey in music.
