Nomabotwe Mtimkulu took the music industry by storm after she recently released her debut album titled Hamba Ungemi.
The 37-year-old artist, who hails from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, is on a tour across the country promoting her nine-track album.
Ms Mtimkulu will be performing at the Homecoming Centre, Star Theatre at Caledon Street, Buitenkant Street, District Six in Cape Town, Saturday May 3. She described the album as a form of self-expression, healing and exploring personal struggles, and the power of music to help individuals navigate life’s challenges.
Nomabotwe Mtimkulu has released her debut album titled Hamba Ungemi
Image: Siyavuya Khaya
Over the last three years, she has poured her soul into this collection of songs, using the process not only as a means to inspire herself but also to motivate others facing adversity in pursuit of their dreams.
Describing her music as a blend of African contemporary infused with elements of gospel and jazz, Ms Mtimkulu believes her album will take listeners on a spiritual journey of reflection and resilience. “I hope this album serves as a beacon of encouragement for anyone feeling disheartened,” she said, emphasising the importance of perseverance in the face of life's challenges.
Every aspect of the album's creation was a testament to Ms Mtimkulu's tenacity. “It took me three years to work on the album due to financial constraints. As an independent artist, I had to cover all the costs by myself,” she added, highlighting the arduous yet rewarding process of crafting her music. “I know that the music might be new to the listener, but you will definitely get a feeling that the music in the album has been refined for some time.”
Ms Mtimkulu's journey as a musician began in the church choir, where she first developed her vocal prowess. She later expanded her repertoire to include choral and jazz music styles that she believes influence her current sound. “I have been a backing vocalist for artists like Ringo Madlingozi, Arno Carstens, and the late Jabu Khanyile,” she explained. “Those years taught me invaluable lessons about the industry; I now know the dos and don’ts required to succeed as a solo artist.”
However, she emphasised that her motivation is not to chase fame or notoriety. Instead, it is about sharing her God-given talent with the world: “This is absolutely not about chasing fame and the limelight, but rather sharing my gift,” she stated, sharing insight into her ethos as an artist. Her commitment to the craft has instilled in her a discipline that propels her forward, ensuring that her music resonates with authenticity and passion.
In a musical landscape often dominated by trend-driven content, Ms Mtimkulu's debut album stands out as a heartfelt expression grounded in real-life experiences and a profound understanding of resilience. With the hope that her work empowers others to persevere, Ms Mtimkulu is ready to take her place as an artist who is not just creating music, but one who is also forging connections through shared experiences and uplifting messages.