Who is MandlA Music?
MandlA Music is a 24-year-old producer, songwriter, composer, and performing artist with a qualification in sound engineering.
How did your journey as a musician start?
My journey as a musician began at a young age when I sang in church. I was chosen as the lead vocalist in Sunday school, and by the age of 10, I formed an acapella group. It was then that I realized I wanted a musical career. During my teenage years in secondary school, I joined the choir, and after completing Form 5, I joined the praise and worship band at church. In 2018, I enrolled at Limkokwing University to pursue an associate degree in Sound Technology.
Why did you choose a career in entertainment?
I didn’t choose to have a career in entertainment; I believe it chose me. I see it as a calling I had to answer. Music is my life; it’s what I’m predominantly good at. I want to heal people with my music, unite, encourage, and inspire love in others. I also want to show people that my success is a blessing from God – Jesus Christ.
What’s the most surprising thing people might not know about you?
I handle everything in the production of my music, including the publishing. This was the case for my previous projects and my current EP titled *Kgosi*. However, I didn’t create the cover art myself; other creative processes not directly related to music are handled by third parties.
Where can one find your music?
You can find my music on all streaming platforms, including Spotify, Deezer, and Apple Music. You can also follow my social media pages to access links to my music.
Can you tell us about your latest album/project? What inspired it?
*Kgosi* EP is my latest project, inspired by life situations—both my own and others’ experiences.
Why did you title your EP “Kgosi”?
I named it *Kgosi* because I hope and envision that my music will one day allow me to live like a king. I aspire to have an opulent lifestyle where I can rise with my people.
Who are your biggest musical influences? How have they shaped your sound?
My biggest musical influences include Bruno Mars, Kabza De Small, Kelvin Momo, Dali Wonga, Travis Greene, and Han C. I’m primarily influenced by dance music, which is why I’m drawn to producing dance tracks. Additionally, artists like Dali Wonga have influenced my singing style.
Which song of yours holds the most personal meaning to you, and why?
*Nkgopole* from the *Kgosi* EP holds the most personal meaning to me. I wrote it when I was at my lowest point, with nothing but a computer and a microphone. The song was my plea to God to remember me.
What is your core message as an artist?
The message I want to convey as an artist is that love, self-awareness, perseverance, and truth are key to a balanced life. Most importantly, I want people to know that God is real and continues to bless me, and that they should turn to Him for help.
Who are some of the people you have worked with?
I’ve had the opportunity to work with Raptured Roots, Baxon, Khoisan, Benedict BW, Bouncy, Motswafere, and Han C. I’ve also collaborated with South African artists Mhaw Keys and TMA.
Any career milestones you could share with us?
A significant milestone in my career was composing for season one of the Department of Broadcasting Service (DBS) roadshow last year. This year, I became their resident DJ. Additionally, I performed at the YAMA 94 event curated by Han C and hosted a successful listening session for the *Kgosi* EP.
What do you hope to achieve in the music industry?
I aim to become a global superstar, performing on the world’s biggest stages. I aspire to be the first Motswana to win a Grammy and hope to be remembered for 100 years to come. I want my music to outlive me and inspire the world to love each other.
Who would you like to collaborate with?
I’m open to collaborating with any superstar you can think of. However, at the top of my list are DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small. It would be a dream come true to work with Bruno Mars.
How do you handle creative blocks or moments of doubt?
When faced with a creative block, I usually take a week-long break from producing music. Sometimes, I seek out new music to listen to, which helps overcome the block. I rarely have moments of doubt, but when I do, I reflect on how far I’ve come and pray about whatever is troubling me.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your career so far?
The biggest challenge in my career has been a lack of finances. Sometimes, my creative goals are limited or cut short due to insufficient funds.
What do you enjoy doing outside of making music?
I’m a gamer; playing video games is what I enjoy in my spare time. If I’m not gaming, I’m either playing soccer or hanging out with friends.
What do you think about the current state of the music industry?
Globally, the industry is alive and vibrant. However, the local industry is slow and behind in development. It’s challenging for upcoming artists to break through, and local artists are still undervalued, often getting booked for free in exchange for exposure and free drinks. On a positive note, our local industry is beautiful, though its growth is slow.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Know your worth and don’t let anyone devalue you. When entering this industry, stay true to yourself, fight for what you love, and believe in what is right, as long as it is good.
Duncan Sebeso