Fresh off a world tour, Mabandla reflects on his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated musical exports.
In just 12 years since releasing his debut album, Bongeziwe Mabandla has steadily cemented his place as a rising star, captivating audiences with his soulful sound and heartfelt storytelling.
Not only has his stardom been widely celebrated at home in South Africa, but his global recognition has also grown remarkably. Fresh off an international tour, he returned to South Africa to shower his fans with musical love, describing it as a “thank you love letter” for their unwavering support.
“I perform a lot overseas, and most of this year was spent across different international countries. Adding a homecoming tour just made sense. These are the people that supported me way back before touching international soil was even a reality. Home will always represent my beginning, and I now get to bring the international flair and growth back here,” he said.
His rise to global acclaim has been a slow burn—a steady labour of love, patience, and an indomitable “never give up” spirit that, he admits, has been the wind beneath his wings.
“When I started in the industry, I definitely felt like an imposter,” he shares candidly. “I was trying my best, trying to fit in so much. But now, when I look at it, I came to place of realising that this journey of music was, and still is, a calling. The past 12 years have given me so many experiences that could have pushed me to stop, but I just couldn’t,” he said, laughing. “Something wouldn’t allow me to.”
The turning point came when he embraced his difference—the very thing that once made him feel like an outsider. Over time, he has realised that an artist’s story and their authenticity are what resonate with audiences beyond the music.
“Although I still can’t pinpoint what specific thing has helped amass my international audience, or even the local loyal fanbase, I do hope it is being authentically myself and also bringing something different and unique to the industry.”
Bongeziwe is a multifaceted artist, having explored various creative outlets. He started as a painter in high school, a talent he still holds dear. Acting followed and was, in fact, the reason he moved to Johannesburg. But music soon claimed his heart.
Since then, he has released four solo albums, each marking pivotal moments in his life. His music serves as a public diary, shared with the world in the hope that it resonates deeply with listeners.
Born and raised in Tsolo, a small town in the Eastern Cape, Bongeziwe’s first relationship with music mirrors that of many South Africans—singing in a church choir. His love for music deepened when he moved to Johannesburg and studied at AFDA, a prominent creative school.
Despite his growing acclaim, Bongeziwe carries himself with much humility, often expressing surprise at his own story and accomplishments. But he remains aware of the time and effort it has taken to build the career he cherishes today.
“I think my current obsession is time,” he says, a theme beautifully captured in his last two projects, imini and amaxesha—translated as “the days of our lives” and “the times of our lives.”
“And right now, I am in a phase of just realising this time in my life and appreciating it for all that it is.
“When I started this journey, I never knew how music was going to change my life. Without knowing it, music has afforded me so many opportunities, and I can say right now that I am in a place of understanding that my gift is very spiritual. At first, I was just doing music because I loved it, and I never connected the dots, but now I see it.
“I’m filled with so much gratitude to see how everything has evolved,” he said.
He now considers amaxesha an old album and is actively preparing to transition into a new era of music with plans to release fresh work next year. “I hope,” he said, laughing.
“Moving from one chapter to another is also a spiritual thing. The fact that I’ve had the opportunity to share music is a blessing. I look back to how it all started, from having a dream to struggling to find a recording label or a fanbase that resonates with you, and now we are five albums in. That is testament to the fact that I am meant to be here,” he said.
