by Nomfundo Mbatha
When Bongeziwe Mabandla stepped on the stage last Saturday night, the Black Power Station crowd was buzzing with excitement. The room vibrated with energy as the audience anticipated the soul-stirring performance of one of South Africa’s most celebrated storytellers in music.
Born and raised in Tsolo, Mabandla’s rise to prominence is a story of resilience and heart. “It took many years for things to start kicking off,” he said in our interview. “When I released my first album I was not getting shows, and nobody really knew who I was.” But that didn’t stop him. With a sound rooted in honesty and emotion, Mabandla has crafted a musical identity that blends folk, soul, and isiXhosa lyricism into something uniquely his own. “My music is about hope and for hope,” he said softly, reflecting on his journey and the purpose behind his art.
What sets Mabandla apart is his deep authenticity, he does not perform at you, but he performs with you. His voice carries the weight of lived experience and his lyrics offer light to those who listen closely. “I think artists are great people,” he said. “We have something within us that can shine, but we must show people what they feel like.”
As the night came to a close, the echoes of his voice lingered through the Black Power Station. For Makhanda, this was more than just a concert, it was a moment of collective reflection and healing.
Bongeziwe Mabandla reminded everyone that even in a world full of uncertainty, music still has the power to give us hope. and to be hope itself.
