EDITOR’S CORNER!
Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.” – KOFI ANNAN
Knowledge is key to your growth and success, I could not have said it better. When you learn you grow and excel in whatever you set your mind on. The journey of learning is that of an infinitive nature. I believe this with my mind, body and soul.
I can go on about this topic because it is relative to our daily lives, but it is time I get to the programme.
My week was eventful to say the least. The team had to work twice as hard with tasks at hand. In the entertainment industry there is always something happening especially considering that the sector was once no more due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is slowly recovering.
This week I learnt a great deal about the different digital spaces that are available for artists, in all spheres to take advantage of. I got to write an article about non fungible tokens which is a crypto currency based platform that allows artists of all dimensions to sell and trade their art through it.
I also wrote about Glocal which is a digitally based competition for artists of all genres, that has given an opportunity to emaSwati to participate in.
I went on to write a piece about Thubillion who is a local music producer and DJ. Then I wrote an article about a new show on Channel YemaSwati called Political Eye which focuses on discussing political issues. One of my highlights was writing about a fine artist named Thembinkosi Mabuza whom we featured in Gwcala a few weeks back and is currently receiving international recognition from South Africa and Europe for his drawings through DJ Tira and Dbn Gogo posting about him and is work.
Basically mine was one not short of positive feedback and growth. Please catch up with the Entertainment team every week in the daily newspaper for the latest updates in the entertainment industry.
In this week’s Gcwala, readers can look forward to learning about Deo who is a singer, songwriter, model and events management graduate.
We also have a feature on an upcoming female Gospel artist, the journey of a transgender and a feature called role model of the week, the beautiful and talented Velemseni.
Also a new week comes with another episode of Kingdom XLR PLUG with Nolo Dee with some inspiration and knowledge.
Last but not least we give our children great games and activities to keep them occupied throughout the day and our beautiful picture spread.
I hope that covers everything. Till next time friend, keep living, loving and praying. Love and light to you all.
Peace. I’m out!
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Gratias Magagula is a young vibrant singer, songwriter, mode l and an events management graduate born and raised in the Manzini Region. Her sound is heavily influenced by RnB soul infused with Jazz, Indie Rock, Afro/ Neo Soul and Pop. She started writing songs for fun as a little child, then the passion grew as she got older.
She finally transitioned from a fanatic listener and has blazed a trail for her music career ever since, started learning guitar and later developed her sound. Her journey has not always been easy but she grew through all her experiences. She shares her journey and inspiring words.
What was the reason you got into music?
It is a combination of events, church and listening to the radio. We did not have much growing up, so most of the times I was exposed to music when listening to the radio. My grandmother did not want me to get bored because I was an only child so she bought me this tiny radio I would take everywhere with me. It had a little strap on it, I literally knew all the time slots that each programme aired and I would get excited to hear all the new music that emaSwati were putting out. I joined the church choir when I was at the age of 11 and I would write songs all day and tried to share them with the group. It was just a hobby for a while and listening to it helped me escape and create a whole different reality for myself. Then I started considering it as a career in 2016.
Who inspired you to make music?
Firstly it was Alicia Keys then my cousin actually gave me the thought that I could record and perform.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
RnB or Soul with a bit of Jazz and indie, I like to make music for the soul.
What like? is your creative process
It differs, sometimes I am just jamming with my friends then something comes up. I would play new chords on the guitar which would spark something in me and at times you find that I have been bottling some feelings inside then they come out in the form of a new song. Sometimes I just keep random notes from random thoughts and they turn into a song.
Who would you like to collaborate with the most?
Wow, the list is long in Eswatini; Bholoja, Lunga Sky and Velemseni. In South Africa it is Sun El Musician, Black Coffee, Ami Faku and Azana.
If you could be the opening act for any artist who would it be?
That is easy, Alicia Keys.
I would like us to delve more into your events management career?
Well, I would not call it a career as of yet but it is a passion I am growing into.
Where did you study?
I studied at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. I graduated with an associate degree in events management.
What sparked your interest and passion for events planning?
I love creating something from nothing .I have always enjoyed gatherings but mostly musical ones. My love for music inspired me to study events management and when I got onto the field I discovered the joy in planning weddings. The smile on the newlywed’s faces and their gratitude means everything to me.
How do you infuse your music together with your events management skills?
Unfortunately I have not done that yet but I am planning to use both my skills together in the future.
How do you keep up with industry trends and news?
Social media. It is inescapable.
How long have you been a model for?
I was a model for five years but am not any longer.
What has been your within this career?
I
highlight
My hostess, promo days especially DSTV 2019 Bushfire weekend.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I would definitely say it is from other musicians. Life and love and pretty much all the ups and downs that come with it.
Tell us more about your singing and song writing career.
It is challenging and fun at the same time. I have not recorded much yet but I have been performing. My last performance was at Alliance Francaise. I can honestly say that the upside to my career is that I learn a lot every day.
Do you play an instrument?
Yes, I play the guitar.