When crafting his latest album, Umkhonto, award-winning soul singer ZukoSA drew inspiration from the challenges faced by young people in their daily lives, as well as his own childhood.
Born Zuko Kupiso, the artist said his album was a deeply personal reflection of his journey from childhood to the present.
Kupiso’s father was a pastor and the singer grew up in a Christian home, crediting prayer as a source of salvation and strength.
Kupiso rose to fame with his smash hit, Qhawe Lam, featuring the late Nwabisa Gcilitshane, a close friend and collaborator.
The artist, who played the piano in church, said he always knew his calling was to sing.
On his recent album, the Afro-soul singer also takes listeners on a spiritual journey.
The title track Umkhonto has been featured on Netflix film Piano Love.
One of the album’s standout tracks features a powerful verse adapted from Psalm 35, which has resonated deeply with his fans: “Zonk’izinto ezibekelwe mna nalapho igama lam libizwa khona mababhidike bahlazeke” (Every trap set for me, where my name is called, the enemy must be confused and exposed).
“Between the ages of 10 and 15 I used to have many seizures, during which I almost died,” Kupiso said.
“My twin brother was the healthy one, but my parents tried their best to get me the best help and they never gave up.
“Prayer saved me, hence I titled my album Umkhonto, meaning a prayer or spiritual weapon.”
Kupiso said the album was also a tribute to young people going through a rough patch.
“Most young people have hectic life experiences and don’t have someone to talk to.
“This album gives you peace of mind and boosts your faith as you listen from first song to last.”
Kupiso, who was born in Dutywa, said he never guessed the album would be such a big hit.
“I never thought the feedback was going to be this huge, I am amazed every time.
“The streaming numbers I used to get from my previous double platinum release have tripled in a short time.
“This album is going to go down in the history books.
“I am now shooting four music videos for the album, and just to give our supporters a one-on-one intimate musical experience with the album, we’ll be having a musical tour.
“I have also been recording new music with Nathi Mankayi, Nomfundo Moh and other great musicians — so the next release will be much bigger than the previous work I’ve done.”
Kupiso said he always knew he would use his voice to touch lives.
“I just needed to study and equip myself more before joining the music industry.”
The singer, who has been in the limelight for more than three years, has now realised you can be anything you want to be.
“Anything is possible through selflessness, consistency and respecting your work.
“To young people having the same dream, there’s no time to waste — go for it,” he said.
“Study the music business as you work.”
DispatchLIVE
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