Bra Hugh would be proud of Complete Isiqalo
Debut album bags Sama nomination
The late legendary musician Hugh Masekela must be smiling down at his protégé, traditional music group Complete Isiqalo, right now.
After years of touring outside the country and working closely with the award-winning music maestro, Complete Isiqalo released their first album, The Beginning, last year.
They have been in existence since 2001.
For their efforts, they have earned a Best Traditional Music Album nomination at the SA Music Awards.
Group member Bubele Mgele says they are looking forward to mingling with industry peers at the glamorous event to be held at Sun City, North West, next Saturday.
“We have worked hard on the album and we have been together for a long time touring all over the world, but have not been receiving much attention here at home, so it is a good feeling to have a nomination,” Mgele said.
Complete Isiqalo was founded by brothers Happy and Bonginkosi Motha before Bubele and Mluleleki Chuma joined.
Mgele says they were able to work on a gospel album but were not successful in launching it in the country due to poor marketing on their side.
He says the group’s passion was reignited when they were introduced to Masekela by a friend.
“About 10 years ago the friend arranged for us to meet with Bra Hugh. When we met we sang for him and on that day he promised that he would work with us, and he did,” Mgele says.
He adds that Masekela taught them the ins and outs of the music industry.
“He would have been proud if he was around to see how far we have come. He is the one person who believed in us.”