Phumlani-born vocalist Zukisa “Maleta” James has scored a big song collaboration with Zintle Kwaaiman, who is one of the top musicians to come out of the Eastern Cape.
The song, titled Mama, is making waves on social media since its release four days ago.
James recorded the song with Kwaaiman during the Eastern Cape Studio Lock-in camp held by Rapulane Mothlabane in March to help aspiring artists navigate the industry.
Mama has already climbed to an impressive chart position on iTunes, being at number two in SA. James is now managed by the team behind the Eastern Cape Studio Camp.
She started recording music in 2012, but had been writing songs since she was in grade 7.
Studio Camp helped her with everything she needed to know about the music industry.
“Before Studio Camp, I knew little about the business side of the music industry,” James said.
“But they taught me how to handle contracts with record labels, how to speak and stand up for myself as a creative, and the importance of being independent.
“They also taught me the advantages and disadvantages of signing with record labels.
“I learnt a lot of valuable information I need in the industry, especially to protect myself as a vocalist.
“The talent I came across at the camp made me realise the Eastern Cape is a very talented region. And I made sure I made songs with different vocalists and producers.”
She was overjoyed at how popular her song was.
“I am very happy, but at the same time still in disbelief,” she said.
“I am taking it one day at a time, and I truly appreciate everyone who has been positive so far, like those who have been showing me love on social media.
“I didn’t expect this hype so soon — everything is happening so fast and I like it, but I am keeping myself grounded and am ready to release more beautiful music.
“Everyone has been so supportive — my family, my circle and the people on social media.”
James said her roots provided her with the drive to continue pursuing her musical career and perfecting her craft.
“Coming from Phumlani, where the late Queen Zahara hails from, and preserving her legacy, as well as writing my own story as Maleta, motivates me, and hopefully this will be inspiring to other young artists in our village and the Eastern Cape as a whole.
“All this will keep me going forward.”
Before the Studio Camp, she was beginning to feel frustrated about her fate in the music industry, but manager Dantsiano City reminded her of the dreams she wished to achieve.
“Accepting me into the camp was an uplifting moment. I just want to tell my story, I believe this is a calling for me. And to be able to do what I am called to do is a huge blessing.”
James was grateful to have met Kwaaiman because she had been a great support.
“Zintle and I have a very healthy relationship. Two people with the same goal, same energy and sisters who want to see each other win.
“Meeting Zintle and working with her has been a blessing in my life, from her choosing me to her pushing my brand on social media and being my cheerleader.”
Mothlabane said he was thrilled about James’ excellence and he wished her the best in her career.
During the Studio Camp, he knew something great was brewing, but he was surprised at how fast it happened.
“Everyone produced songs through telling their life experiences, and this was the first song released after the camp, and the results have been good.
“People are starting to believe the work done during the Eastern Cape Studio Lock-in camp, and that our artists are talented but need structure and guidance.”
He said James was an independent artist being managed by Dantsiano City due to their reluctance to register with record labels, which could have negative consequences.
“Some of the artists we’ve looked after have even passed on because of the stress the industry comes with, and I want the Eastern Cape to now be a safe space for our own.
“We will continue hosting the camp, and it will be the inheritance of Eastern Cape children in the music industry.”
Mothlabane said the dates of the next camps would be announced after April 25.
Daily Dispatch
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