Spotify has announced Makhadzi as the EQUAL Africa ambassador for the month of September 2023.
Makhadzi is Spotify’s ‘EQUAL Africa’ ambassador – Here’s what it means
Makhadzi joins a stellar lineup of multitalented African female artists, including Tayla, Qing Madi, and Khanyisa, as part of the EQUAL Africa initiative, which aims to elevate the careers of women in Africa’s music landscape.
Makhadzi’s journey in the entertainment industry is a remarkable tale of talent, resilience, and determination.
Her story began at the tender age of 12 when she started as a dancer. Hailing from Limpopo, the same province where she would later build a devoted fan base, Makhadzi’s early performances took place at taxi ranks, shops, and small events as a relatively unknown artist.
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She recalls:
“I realised music was my destiny during my early days when I’d perform in the streets near taxi ranks and shops. I’d attract a lot of people who would give me some change as I performed. Most people would even miss their transport just by standing there and watching me.”
The path of an emerging artist is often fraught with challenges, and success is never guaranteed.
The singer’s debut studio album, Muhwalo Uya Ndemela, released in 2015, did not achieve the same level of success as her subsequent projects.
However, she emphasises the importance of self-belief and timing, stating:
“The key is to believe in yourself and wait for your time. If you believe in your talent, then you need to trust and believe in God’s time; we know His time is always the best.”
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The singer’s breakthrough came with her album Matorokisi, catapulting her to national stardom.
Subsequent projects like Kokovha and African Queen have firmly cemented her status as a prominent artist.
Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, highlighted the significance of supporting African female artists.
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She noted that these artists have consistently proven themselves as formidable forces in the music industry, often in the face of limited resources and opportunities.
“Extending resources, and generating more impactful opportunities for them is of paramount importance at Spotify,” she said.
Speaking about her music, she reflected:
“As an artist, you can do music in any way you like as long as there’s a nice melody, a nice vibe, and a good message. I make nice melodies for people to dance, and I love that I sing in my own language.”