Afro-soul singer, composer and guitarist Siphelo Jongwana has released his debut single.
He is now working on his debut album, Ingqaka, with the leading single, Igoli, a heartfelt tribute to his late mentor Zahara.
The Peddie-born musician has been influenced by legends such as Brenda Fassie, Ringo Madlingozi and contemporary artists such as Nathi Mankayi.
His passion for music was nurtured early in life through his involvement in church and his primary school choir.
During his university years he honed his craft by participating in jam sessions, showcasing his self-taught guitar skills and unique musical talent.
“Music to me is all about storytelling,” Jongwana said.
“I express myself properly, I love telling stories that will be relatable to the audience.
“I grew up loving music.
“At the age of nine years, I was part of a choir and at university I started composing music and taught myself how to play the guitar by watching YouTube.”
Also known as Phelo Musiq, he is a qualified teacher but was bitten by the music bug in 2020 when he moved to Johannesburg to look for employment.
“After graduating at Nelson Mandela University, I packed my suitcase and went to the city of gold, hoping for a better livelihood,” he said.
“It was not an easy journey as it is difficult getting employment in our country.”
Jongwana said the title of his debut album, Ingqaka, meant the first layer on fermented milk.
“People know Phelo Musiq, but not the real me,” he said.
“They know only the surface layer of my life. They do not know what I have been up to and how I have ended at where I am today. The song is full of life stories.”
The album consists of 10 songs, with two features from other up-and-coming artists.
It has two leading singles, Igoli and Amathemba.
“Igoli was released on February 9 on Bulelwa Zahara Mkutakana’s birthday, as I was paying a tribute to her.
“For a decade I had the privilege of being under her protective shield, and her influence has profoundly shaped my journey both personally and professionally.
“In the single , I wanted to express my deep gratitude for the wisdom, guidance and love she bestowed upon me.
“This song is not just a musical piece, it is a celebration of her legacy and the indelible mark she has left on my life and the lives of many others.”
He said the second single would be released on May 1 .
“Zahara’s death sparked something in me.
“That was when I decided in 2023 to go to the studio and record my songs.
“Initially I was as not confident enough. I only started writing and composing music, instead of singing. Zahara pushed and inspired me.”
Phelo Musiq has made notable strides in his career, performing at events such as Johannesburg Pride and gaining recognition as a contestant on SABC 1’s musical talent search, Ushuni Womhlaba.
“People can expect different melodies from the album,” Jongwana said.
“It is mixture of stories which will make people reflect on their lifetime journeys.
“It is different genres with easy singalong songs.”
Igoli can be found on streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music and social media platforms.
Daily Dispatch
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.