Gold hits, platinum dreams & global ambassador — Usimamane's glow up
But it doesn't end there. Usimamane has just been announced as a brand ambassador for Converse, further cementing his status as a cultural icon on the rise.
Speaking to TshisaLIVE, he said: 'I am all about culture and embracing ... the culture of where I come from, my roots. I really like to speak about what I am going through in my songs in that moment of time.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
TimesLIVE
9 hours ago
- TimesLIVE
Gospel fraternity mourns death of renowned pastor Dr SD Gumbi
The gospel and religious community is in mourning after the death of revered pastor Dr Simon 'SD' Gumbi, affectionately known for his iconic phrase ' U-Amen Usekhona? ' He died on Monday evening after a long illness at the age of 66. Gumbi rose to prominence in the 1990s with his popular and spirit-filled sermons on Ukhozi FM's Sunday night show Unkulunkulu Nomuntu Omusha, where he ministered to millions of listeners across South Africa. His powerful voice, unwavering faith and ability to reach people's hearts earned him a loyal following both on air and in church circles. Gospel legend Sipho Makhabane expressed his heartbreak over the loss, describing Gumbi as more than just a colleague. 'I'm still coming to terms with his passing and I'm saddened by the news. I've lost a father, a brother and a mentor in the gospel fraternity. I'll remember uBaba for his full contribution to the gospel industry whether it's in singing, preaching or prayer. He always made an effort to make someone's life better. My heartfelt condolences to his family,' Makhabane told TshisaLIVE. Award-winning gospel singer Rebecca Malope also paid tribute, reflecting on the life and spiritual impact of the late preacher. 'May his soul rest in peace. He has done the Lord's work and he was trusted by the Lord in his duty. Wherever he is, the angels are embracing him. We could see he was no longer himself. All the pain he endured is no more. It's a great loss to us, the gospel fraternity at large,' Malope said. Gospel singer and pastor Jabu Hlongwane shared his own emotional memory of Gumbi, recalling their last meeting at the funeral of fellow gospel icon Zanele Mbokazi. 'I'm still trying to adjust my thinking about this sad news. When I heard of his passing, I thought who's going to be the father in our space now? He fulfilled his purpose on this earth, which was to spread the gospel. When we saw him for the last time at Zanele's funeral, it felt like a farewell. He spoke, then sang, and we all sang along with him. It was beautiful. Condolences to his family,' said Hlongwane.
TimesLIVE
10 hours ago
- TimesLIVE
Afro-pop singer AllOver I reveals musical inspirations and his new project
Afro-pop sensation Mxolisi Ngcobo, better known by his stage name AllOver I, is making waves in the local music scene with his heartfelt and socially conscious sound. The rising star recently opened up about the musical influences that shaped his journey and the powerful message behind his latest project. Speaking to TshisaLIVE, AllOver I revealed that his passion for music was sparked by international hip-hop icon 50 Cent. 'Growing up, 50 Cent's resilience and his come-up story spoke to me. His confidence and how he turned his pain into power inspired me to do the same with my story,' he said. On the home front, he draws influence from kwaito legend Zola 7, who is widely celebrated for using music as a tool for empowerment and storytelling. 'Zola 7 was that voice for the voiceless. He made us believe that no matter where you come from, your story matters. That stayed with me.' AllOver I's latest project Ukubona Abantu Abacindezelwa explores the struggles faced by everyday South Africans. The title, which loosely translates to 'seeing the oppressed people,' reflects a core theme of resilience and hope. 'The inspiration came from seeing people who are constantly beaten down by life — by poverty, by unemployment, by personal loss — but somehow they rise. Bouncing back, sophumelela as if akaze kwabheda (they succeed as if things were never bad),' he said. Blending smooth Afro-pop melodies with lyrical depth, AllOver I hopes his music will uplift listeners and spark conversations about healing and survival. 'This is for the people who keep going even when life doesn't make it easy. I want them to know I see them, and they're not alone.' With an ever-growing fan base and authentic storytelling at the heart of his music, AllOver I is a name to watch in the Afro-pop landscape.
TimesLIVE
12 hours ago
- TimesLIVE
Actress Mpume 'Six' Nyamane joins Mzansi Wethu's new series
Homecoming, a compelling new telenovela from award-winning production house Tshedza Pictures, is set to premiere on Mzansi Wethu at the end of July. The telenovela features a stellar ensemble cast, blending familiar industry powerhouses with rising stars including Sabelo Hadebe, Sipho Manzini, Khombi Phetla, Mpilo Mbatha, Khayalethu Xaba and Amahle Khumalo. Set in the scenic backdrop of Bergville, KZN, Homecoming follows the journey of Zethu Hlongwane, played by rising star Mpume 'Six' Nyamane (Unmarried), a brilliant medical school graduate with dreams of becoming one of South Africa's few black female surgeons. However, when reality hits hard — no job, no placement — Zethu is left with no choice but to return to the rural village she once left behind, her aspirations seemingly stalled. Back in Bergville, Zethu finds herself torn between two worlds — one of Western science and medicine, and the other deeply rooted in African tradition. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Sifiso Kubheka, portrayed by the award-winning Thembinkosi Mthembu (Shaka iLembe, The River). Sifiso is a man of dual identities: a dedicated police officer by day, and a traditional healer by night. Their meeting ignites a powerful exploration of identity, healing, belief — and ultimately, love. Speaking to TshisaLIVE, Shirley Adonisi, director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net said: ' Homecoming is a story that speaks to so many South Africans. It is rich in emotion, grounded in culture and full of heart. We are proud to have a show on Mzansi Wethu that reflects the complexity and beauty of rural life in a way that feels fresh, honest and deeply relatable.' Homecoming is helmed by acclaimed producer Lulu Hela, who sees the series as more than just entertainment. ' Homecoming is a deeply meaningful project for us,' Hela explains. 'The title reflects a return to the places, people and practices that shaped us. At the heart of this story is a powerful conversation between traditional and Western medicine — two worlds often seen in opposition. Viewers can expect a rich, character-driven narrative that challenges, heals and sparks conversation.' This promises to be one of the most talked-about new local dramas of the year. Don't miss the premiere on Monday July 28 at 6.30pm. The show will air every Monday to Wednesday on Mzansi Wethu. Homecoming takes over the time-slot of fan-favourite Sibongile & The Dlaminis, which wraps up on Wednesday July 23.
