BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE: Mesmerising vocals!
I have seen her at numerous Gospel shows as a backup singer; for local and international Gospel artists. Her performance is always breathtaking, especially when she does the lead song; those vocals are powerful.
Her name is Bongekile Nxumalo. She was born and bred in the city of Manzini. She grew up in Boyane, Mbekelweni.
She shared with this publication that her last solo project was released two years ago, and the title of the song is Uthando, which she performed at the Eswatini Gospel Awards and brought the house down.
She shared more about her journey in the industry, and this is what she had to say.
Tell us more about the song
I worked with my friends who are also in the music industry, and my producer was Ziyawa KaZitha.
This song was inspired by the Holy Spirit, honestly, because I read the scripture in Romans 8:38–39, which is well-known and mostly used in sad times. So I kept humming this melody and then followed the words; I recorded it, and the rest is history.
This was my debut single, but I have been featured on a few songs by the likes of Sphiwo Ndoni, titled Nginatsise, and Nothando Shabangu, titled Yekubuhle
When did you join the music industry?
At a tender age, I would sit in during praise and worship at church, and as soon as that was over, I went straight out to play. In 2016, when I got to Varsity, my music journey took a direction.
You have been a backup singer for most Gospel artists. What has that experience taught you?
Being a stand-up artist has taught me versatility in terms of song style. It has also helped me improve my singing, as different songs require different approaches, and I have learned about the industry in general.
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Whom would you still love to work with?
I would love to work with Hlengiwe Ntombela. I love how she pours out herself every time she ministers. She brings out new meaning from songs that you’ve heard before, as well as Ntokozo Mbambo, who is much anointed, and she too has a beautiful work ethic and personality.
How is the music industry in Eswatini?
The music industry is one of the most competitive and dynamic fields, and I personally think the way you perceive it is the way it will affect you. It can either make or break you. To win, you need to collaborate.
What are the challenges of being an artist in Eswatini?
Well, for now, it seems impractical to sustain your lifestyle with music because gigs, or rather, shows, do not pay much. Our music has not grown as much as we would like to see it grow due to not planning and marketing shows properly and a lack of business knowledge as far as music is concerned.
As Gospel artists in the country, we need to have a stable where we will subscribe, so with the funds, members are supported. Since we do not have sponsors yet and have not planned properly for an event, to avoid having four shows in four weeks with pretty much the same line-up.
What advice would you give an aspiring musician?
My advice to aspiring musicians is simple: Be you, don’t compete, but work hard to better yourself, and above all, pray, pray, pray.
When can we expect your next project?
The next project is in the pipeline, and people must be on the lookout for further details relating to that.
Who inspires you in music?
Locally, my favourite has to be Ncandweni, led by Timothy Myeni. Their music is timeless; we grew up listening to it, but it remains relevant even now.
Globally, I have quite a list because I learn different things from different people. Hlengiwe Ntombela, Ntokozo Mbambo, and Kim Burrell, to mention but a few.
