Latest news with #Umshado
The Citizen
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Mawhoo on thriving in Amapiano's male-dominated scene
Mawhoo was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025. South African vocalist Mawhoo is making waves in the Amapiano genre with her unique sound and rising success in a male-dominated industry. Mawhoo, whose real name is Thandeka Ngema, was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025, a recognition of her growing influence and artistic impact. The EQUAL Africa programme is part of Spotify's global initiative to spotlight and support women creators by equipping them with the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the music industry. Mawhoo's journey in music began in 2018 with the release of her debut single Umshado, which she credits as the beginning of her professional breakthrough. 'The positive feedback from people and the reception to the track made me realise that I can do this thing. But I've always been passionate about music from a young age,' she said. Her path to success, however, has not been without its challenges. As a woman in the industry, Mawhoo said she faced not only creative limitations but also pressure to conform. 'There was a time when people used to make me do music and a sound that didn't resonate with me; I couldn't be creative fully and be expressive, so people used to assume I couldn't sing or that I wasn't talented. 'I was often bullied, and that made me stressed, but instead of leaving music, I carried on and didn't give up. I used that to push myself.' Now regarded as one of the leading voices in Amapiano, she believes her success comes from staying true to herself. 'I've empowered myself, and I make decisions that feel right to me. I don't do things just to please others. I don't do anything that's going to make me feel uncomfortable. If a space doesn't serve me, I walk away.' NOW READ: 'It's not just music, it's a story': Showmax celebrates Kabza De Small's Amapiano brilliance Mawhoo on breaking barriers and setting boundaries Speaking on the broader challenges women face in the music space, Mawhoo said the industry often blurs professional and personal boundaries. 'As a woman, even beyond the music industry, there are challenges that we face. We are subjected to being wanted and approached by men promising us love or looking for intimacy, even in professional settings. 'As women, learn to stand your ground and say no. Teach people to respect you and your decisions. Don't do things because you want to please others and want to be favoured — don't sell your soul.' NOW READ: 'We're all puppets': Q&A with Chester Missing
IOL News
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
MaWhoo expresses gratitude as 'Bengicela' tops global music charts
MaWhoo has taken a moment to express her heartfelt gratitude to her devoted fans following the chart-topping success of her latest single, 'Bengicela'. Image: Supplied South African music sensation MaWhoo has taken a moment to express her heartfelt gratitude to her devoted fans following the chart-topping success of her latest single, 'Bengicela'. The artist, who has quickly become a powerhouse in the music industry, celebrated the impressive streaming figures that propelled the song to the forefront of global music platforms. Taking to Instagram, she remarked, 'The love and support you've shown 'Bengicela' has been really unbelievable.' 'Bengicela", a profound collaboration featuring GL_Ceejay, Thukuthela and the production expertise of Jazzworx, has achieved remarkable milestones, including the coveted number one spot on the Apple Music all-genres charts and being dubbed the number one trending song on YouTube. Its success extends to Spotify, where it currently holds the number 5 position in the top songs charts, as well as claiming the title of the number 1 viral song on Shazam, defining its status as a global hit. At its core, 'Bengicela' stands as a powerful conversation with the Divine, woven into a vibrant tapestry of emotional depth and rhythmic energy. MaWhoo's distinct vocal delivery channels sincere pleas for hope, guidance and deliverance, resonating with listeners amid their struggles. The track's roots stemming from the evolving landscape of Amapiano highlight not only its dancefloor appeal but also its spiritual significance. MaWhoo's artistic vision transcends mere entertainment, aiming to uplift listeners and spark introspection. 'This song is my way of saying, 'I see you. I feel what you're going through. Let's pray together,'' she emphasised. Born Thandeka Nontobeko Ngema in the small town of Eshowe in KwaZulu Natal, MaWhoo has consistently used her music as a platform to express her truth and share her journey. Gaining attention with her breakout hit 'Umshado', featuring Heavy-K, she has meticulously carved out a unique niche for herself, defined by her hauntingly beautiful vocals and introspective lyrics. Over her career, MaWhoo has produced a steady stream of hits, including 'Moya Wami', 'Ngiyamthanda' and 'Thokoza', marking her presence in the South African music scene. Throughout her five-plus-year professional career, MaWhoo has demonstrated remarkable versatility, moving seamlessly across various genres, from deep and soulful house to hip hop and maskandi. Her collaborations with noted artists such as Kabza De Small, Master KG, Mthandeni Sk and Kelvin Momo illustrate her capacity to adapt to diverse musical styles while remaining true to her artistic essence. As MaWhoo's heartfelt dedication to her fans shines through, it is clear that her music will not only move bodies across dance floors but also minister to the spirits of those yearning for connection and hope. ∎ 'Bengicela' is out now on all digital platforms.
