Msaki’s soulful voice and deeply introspective, socially conscious lyrics have become a significant thread woven into the fabric of South Africa’s collective identity. Her music often serves as a poignant backdrop to the lives of many, offering a sense of connection and reflection. Whether it’s the anthemic Fetch Your Life or the heart-stirring Ubomi Abumanga, her artistry resonates universally, delivering timeless lessons and stories that speak to the human experience—reminding us that someone, somewhere, always shares our journey.
Though her artistry and presence have elevated her to a revered figure, often likened to a sage—enlightened, introspective, and profoundly insightful—Msaki humbly reveals that she, too, is a student of the music she creates. She experiences the lessons embedded in her songs alongside the audience, finding meaning and growth in the very melodies and narratives that have touched so many lives.
“Ha.a guys, there’s no genius here,” Msaki chuckles, her humility shining through when asked about the epiphanies her music brings. “We are all figuring it [the meanings] out at the same time. I am alongside it, and at times I give away a song that is yet to be revealed to me,” she adds with disarming honesty.
This profound simplicity encapsulates Msaki’s 10-year journey in music, one that has seen her emerge as a powerful voice of connection, healing, and hope. It’s a journey of artistic evolution and personal growth. This chapter of her life is aptly named Camagu, meaning “thank you”—a celebration of gratitude for all that has shaped her.
“I’m a person who has said many things over the years besides thank you, but this is the thing that I want to make the biggest fuss about and make a very big moment around,” she shares passionately.
For Msaki, gratitude is not merely a feeling but a state of being shaped by life’s unpredictable cocktail of highs and lows. It is this mix that led her to pause, take stock, and rediscover herself during a hiatus last year.
“I think had I not taken a step back, I’d still be moving. But I’d be moving with the scars, moving with the fatigue and confusion. But because I had a chance for that pause, I was able to look at life holistically,” she reflects. “It is from there that I realised the stuff that hurt me pales in comparison to the magical and serendipitous moments in my life.”
This realisation has filled Msaki’s heart with gratitude—for the meaningful relationships she’s built and the unwavering love and support she receives daily, “for free,” as she calls it, these little blessings remind her that no amount of pain can outweigh the beauty of life.
Sometimes, you have to step back to see the whole picture.
Msaki, born Asanda Mvana, made the bold leap into full-time music in 2012, recognising that a half-hearted commitment wouldn’t take her far. Also, being in the East London was not doing much for the music, which necessitated the big move.
“My parents gave me a hard time when I said I was going to be a musician,” she recalls, laughing. “But once they got it—the vision—they have been there through and through. My dad even records my community radio station interviews for the family WhatsApp group to show his pride.”
Her journey has given as much to her as she’s poured into it. And in a pivotal moment when everything seemed to crumble, she found the strength to rebuild herself. One of her greatest lessons from this time? Grace.
“I used to be so hard on myself and expect so much. When I trace it back, my core limiting belief was that I was not enough. So I always felt like I had to prove myself—to do more. Or that I was too much, so I needed to dim myself,” she explains.
Her breakthrough came with self-acceptance and easing the relentless pressure she placed on herself.
“Doing more looked like expecting to show up 100% as a mother while running two or three businesses, managing teams, mentoring people—the works. But now, I’ve dialed the pressure all the way down and I am enjoying the things I can do. I’ve become an excellent delegator, championing others in what they do and simply supporting them.”
Letting go has been transformative for Msaki, enabling her to channel energy back into her own life and relationships. It has opened her eyes to the abundance of goodness surrounding her and ushered her into what she calls her “thankful season.”
“I’ve created pockets and spaces that allow me to show up as a person, as a friend and for my family. Balance is what I am after the most in this era of my life,” she says.
To mark this illustrious decade in the industry, Msaki makes a grand return to the stage with her spectacular show, Camagu in Symphony: 10 Years of Gratitude, set to grace the renowned SunBet Arena this December. The event is not just a celebration of her journey but a rebirth for the beloved artist, whose last performance was in April 2023. Every note, every moment, will reflect her unwavering dedication to her craft and her deeply personal gratitude.
“I’m incredibly excited for people to see the strength of my team and my full artistry. I feel it’s my duty to do this well so I can be a proper picture of the gift that God gave me and to bring honour to God all at once.”
Known for her meticulous attention to detail, Msaki promises an unforgettable experience that transcends the music itself. “I adore beautifully produced shows. Crafting the entire experience is a dream come true, and I want attendees to leave feeling completely fulfilled. Through these performances, I get to communicate on a level beyond just songs; I get to pour out all my love.
“With the incredible Tshepo Tsotetsi, I’ve arranged every single note, every choir harmony, and every instrumental layer. I’m so hands-on because I want every part of this to feel intentional. The second half of the show will be an ode to house music, a genre that holds a very special place in my heart. This entire show is anchored on giving back—through music, through love and everything that moves me,” she said.
