Music: Zahara - "Loliwe"

Written by Brendah Nyakudya
Tuesday, 13 December 2011 16:03

A singing sensation. As clichéd as that phrase sounds, this is exactly what 24-year-old Bulelwa Mtukutana has turned out to be. Popularly known as Zahara, this young lady from Phumlani, East London has grabbed nationwide attention and has touched the hearts of music-lovers across the nation. This vocalist, guitarist, composer and songwriter has certainly made a mark, with her debut album going gold by selling 20 000 copies – in just two weeks!

Armed with her guitar and her hauntingly beautiful voice, Zahara serenades listeners with tracks such as Umthwalo and Loliwe, and one is left in no doubt at all of her talent. Many have likened her voice to the late great Brenda Fassie’s, and it’s easy to see why – just listen to Xa Bendingena Mama. The raw edge in her vocals is most definitively reminiscent of the amazing talent of South African music legends of bygone days.

As with most singers, Zahara started her career in the church choir as a worship leader and at first only performed locally in East London, where for far too long she was a well-kept secret among club-goers. A secret no more, Zahara received the great honour of performing her single Thekwana for former president Nelson Mandela in his hometown of Qunu. For us that’s reason enough to purchase her album!