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Mkhululi Ncube, themkhust@gmail.com
Rhumba musician Perfect “Tsheba” Vundla, despite releasing his 14th album this past weekend in South Africa, says music has not given him the rewards he deserves. He described his relationship with music as one-sided, revealing that, while his passion for music remains strong, the industry has not been as kind in return.
“To tell you the truth, we aren’t reaping much from the work and investment we put into music. I continue to make music because it’s something that’s in me and I can’t let go of it,” said Tsheba.
Known for his hit Amalembu Kagogo, Tsheba explained that he survives outside of music, where he finds the financial means to support his family.
He stressed that music serves as a personal healing process rather than a reliable source of income.
“Musicians are like people with an ancestral calling. You can’t simply walk away from it. I’ll continue to compose good music because it’s in my blood. However, outside of music, I have work that gives me the money to support my family.
“If it wasn’t for that, I would be a beggar relying solely on music. But I have people who support me, so I can’t let them down,” he said.
In one of the tracks on his latest album, Kunzima Emazweni, Tsheba pours his heart out, lamenting the struggles that musicians face in making a living from their talents despite their efforts.
Despite these challenges, Tsheba remains committed to his craft.
“People love what we gave them this year, and I know they will enjoy the album,” he said.
The title track, Ugogo Kakalali, requests that elders rest so that younger generations can dance freely during the festive season. Other tracks on the album include Indlala, Izitha, Ukhulumani Lomuntu Wami, Qhawe Lami, and the comic-filled Mamburumburu.
Tsheba, however, will not be able to perform live shows this year due to the recent loss of his mother.
“I had people who wanted to hire us, but we couldn’t commit,” he shared, still mourning his loss. – @themkhust
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