Nozipho proud of nomination
Coveted Sama may boost her career
Nozipho Ntsele is ready for the big time. And what could set her off better than a coveted SA Music Award (Sama) nomination?
Nozipho is up against heavyweights Kelly Khumalo and Nathi in the Best African Adult Album category. She also shares the space with newcomers Soul Kulture and Dumza Maswana.
It’s a dream come true for the musician from Thokoza on the East Rand, who has been toiling quietly in the shadows.
“Since a young age I have been wanting to be a part of this prestigious event. I’m excited and honoured.”
Nozipho celebrates that on Thando, her first album, they managed to capture young and old souls with the help of master producer Fundile Mdingi.
She says the album celebrates love as a positive thing. “It’s liberating and motivating, it’s something positive to give to the universe and hope it comes back to you.”
Nozipho says the 11-track Afro-soul album boasts elements of blues and beats from old school kwaito and soulful melodies. “It’s an all-round release with a song for everyone and for every occasion.”
It’s been celebration galore in her household – even her mother calls her “my Sama nominee daughter”.
Nozipho’s father was a musician who died on the eve of the release of his first album, and her success should make him proud.
She is an opening act for Maleh at a Germiston gig, but says the big one will be the launch of her album on May 20 at Winnie’s in Wendywood, Sandton, a week before the Sama awards on May 27.
“I would like to grow the brand through singing since it’s my first love. I want to be on bigger stages and go abroad, including the African continent.”