Afro-pop singer Mpume Xulu has finally taken a brave step to kick-start her music career after conquering her fear of venturing into the entertainment industry that was fuelled by horror stories.
Xulu, whose stage name is Mpume SA, was told that the industry was not a safe space for a young woman and that producers would take advantage of her.
In November, the 32-year-old from Nkandla in KwaZulu-Natal released three singles, Sengihambile, Emhlabeni and Ngizenze Mina.
“The year 2020 was different because I let go of the fears that I always had and went to the studio. I guess even God approved. I knew from a young age that I love to be a musician. I started performing while I was in primary school. As much as I was shy when it comes to music, I became alive.
“I studied marketing knowing my heart was in music. I then got a job as a beauty consultant. Last year I said this is my journey and I cannot have perceptions about the industry when I have not even tried my luck. People had told me that since I don’t have a recording company, producers are going to take advantage of me. The industry will frustrate me to a point that I will not recognise myself.”
She says the songs have been well-received.
“People have shown that they appreciate my music. I always have that thought that as much as there are many musicians in SA, we are all gifted differently. I can have a slice of the market of 50 million people. I’m sure there is a crowd that has been waiting to hear the kind of music I am doing.”
She says the songs Ngizenze Mina and Sengihambile talk about heartbreaks and break-ups.
“The two songs talk about how those experiences teach you to accept the situation and move on with your life. The two songs are partly inspired by what happened to me. I was once in a toxic relationship that I had to get out of. I wrote these songs because I know that there are people who have experienced the same thing in their relationships.
“I can see growth as a brand. More and more people are becoming aware of my music as Mpume SA. I’m feeling good because singing is something that I always wanted to do. I am not going to put myself under unnecessary pressure and compete with people who have been long in the industry. I’m just going to allow the process to unfold and continue trusting God with my talent. I plan to drop more songs, maybe a full album, if things allow me.”
She takes care of her three siblings after her mother died.
“I’m the one taking care of my siblings and making sure they go to school. I don’t want to lie, it is difficult to play the role of being a sister and a parent at the same time.”
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.