JO plans to hustle her way to the top
AMANDA Steward is determined to take the music industry by storm. The 27-year-old singer from Noordgesig, Soweto, who also goes by her stage name JO which means Just Obvious says coming from a poor family background has encouraged her to hustle even harder to achieve her dreams.
JO says performing on township streets and at different pubs and restaurants in Melville, Johannesburg, enabled her to pay for the recording of her debut album which was released back in 2012. I actually forced my way into the industry by performing in popular bars and restaurants. Some people cry after I have performed some of my songs for them,” says the jovial singer. She revealed that she has been influenced by pop group Jamali and R&B and House singer Bucie. She says she would like to collaborate with these outfits in the near future.
These musicians have a never-give-up attitude and believe in their dreams and goals.” JO s recent album
was released two years ago and was produced by her friend Junior Fred.
The album features the song which JO says talks about the dynamics of personal relationships which are relevant to everyone
The songstress says she also gained confidence by participating in singing competitions.
Although she has only won once, she believes entering singing contests might still give her the big break she craves.
She has also graced the stage at popular venues including Emperors Palace and Maboneng in Johannesburg.
Besides hustling by selling her CDs on the streets of Jozi and hoping for a recording contract, the talented singer also wants to inspire the youth of her township Noordgesig.
I would like to make a difference in Noordgesig.
There are huge problems in my township like teen pregnancy, drugs and alcohol abuse.”
JO s future plans include starting her own recording label.
I want to start my own recording outlet in the next five years.
I wanna change people s lives for the better, and by using my God-given singing talent, I believe that everything is possible,” she adds.