Afro-soul singer Asanda Mqiki has had a dream since her days at Port Elizabeth's Erica Girl's Primary School.
Afro-soul singer Asanda Mqiki has had a dream since her days at Port Elizabeth's Erica Girl's Primary School.
Inspired by nature and the world around her, the young singer has been developing her talent and said she is now ready to realise that dream: to embark on a solo career.
"It was time to grow and it was time to explore what I can do as Asanda. I guess it was following a gut [feeling]and taking a risk," said Mqiki.
Mqiki is notable for having performed as a guest artist and back-up vocalist with PE-based Jazz Soul group, the Soil, and as a performer in the Takenote jazz band, joining in 2010.
"I think they are great musicians. Even today I try not to miss a Takenote performance. They played a huge role in my musical journey, especially as regards exposing me to Port Elizabeth's audience and I (am grateful) for that," she said.
"I am not a member of the Soil but a sessionist, and I am humbled to have been part of their journey," Mqiki said.
"I enjoy the friendship of togetherness and the blending of our voices. I bring jazz elements and they get fused with their funky/traditional/churchy/kasi style," she said.
Mqiki met the Soil after a short, impromptu jam session at 2010's National Arts Festival.
"Waking up in the morning to the sounds of the universe inspires me to keep going," she said.
Mqiki said that, musically, she is inspired by Sibongile Khumalo and the late Miriam Makeba.
"Artists in the country have shown me that there's a magic in me (to share) with the world," she said.
