Jucy Africa

She is not known as the Princess of House for nothing, Bucie Nqwiliso is the full package, good looks, an amazing voice and as sexy as they come. This PK has worked hard to be this phenomenon she is today. We caught up with her to find out if she finally found that man she broke into the scene looking for or if she finally Got Over It…….you catch my drift right…..This is Bucie uncovered with all the things you probably didn’t know about her!

Bonnie: Please tell us about yourself.

Bucie: Bucie is….a girl, a female vocalist. South African, a mother, a sister, a friend, a daughter. All the nice things you can think of, I am (laughs). I am Bucie B U C I E not Busi (laughs)

Bonnie: When did you break into the music scene?

Bucie: I got into this industry in 2007…yes 2007 ’cause I remember well, my Father passed away in 2006, 2007 I moved to Joburg to study music and that’s when I got my big break.

Bonnie: You got your big break by creating a rather loud and controversial song Ndicel’ Indoda, which happens to be one of my personal favourites. Did you finally get that man?

Bucie: Ha ha ha! Word! I didn’t get it. You know Bonnie, I was a new artist breaking into a big industry, I had to come up with something solid, loud and unforgettable. That song was that type of song that says “I’m here, pay attention, recognize me”. I had to come up with something feisty and cheeky to make my presence felt.

Bonnie: How has the journey been so far?

Bucie: Arg man….it’s been very easy. (laughs). I’m not lucky, I always say that I am very blessed, I have achieved a lot of things within a short space of time and there are people who have been in the industry far longer than I have and still working towards some of those things. It’s been easy for me but of course there are always ups and downs but it hasn’t been that hectic for me that I ever felt like quitting…no!

Bonnie: What are your career highlights?

Bucie: Well….my highlights!!! Oh my word! Rio Ferdinand who plays for Manchester United tweeted me saying he is listening to my song Get Over It! Saying it was song of the day. That stood out for me! My highlight!

Bonnie: Would you advise anybody who wants to get into music, to follow that dream ?

Bucie: Only if you know what you want and you are passionate about it. It’s not about the money, doing it because you love it and the money will follow. If you are in this for the money or the fame, you are in the wrong industry, Find yourself and your passion then follow it through. Study! In whatever field you wanna get into study it, get as much information as you can about it and how you can be better at it. Study!

Bonnie: Well said! Now, if you were not a musician what would you be?

Bucie: I would definitely be a chartered accountant. Even in high school I was very good in accounting, I was one of those people who wouldn’t sleep until I got everything right and that all my sums were balancing! (Laughs)

Bonnie: That’s great! I sucked with numbers (rolls eyes). Bucie, you have a strong Christian background, with your mother being a pastor…you sing House music. How has that been? How have you been received? Do you think people expect you to sing gospel music?

Bucie: There is a lot of judgment, particularly back home. People will be like “You are a pastor’s child and yet you sing house”. That’s all that there is to it though because my Mom supports me, she has no problem with me doing what I love. My family and my friends are okay with me and I’m good. You can judge me, people always judge anyway, whether you are doing good or not so I don’t give a flying kite (laughs) what people say.

Bonnie: Would you ever sing gospel though?

Bucie: I have…..in my second album, the last song there is a gospel song. I do sing gospel because that’s how I grew up, that’s what I know. I would have to do a Gospel song, I’d jump at it…I would so do it.

Bonnie: So tell us, what are you currently working on?

Bucie: I am currently working on my fourth album and my single is coming out soon. It’s Louie Vega starring Bucie-not featuring Bucie! Starring Bucie! We have worked on a song together, look out for it! I have also worked with a lot of big names in the house music industry, not just here in South Africa but globally. It’s gonna be a hot album and I’m very excited about it.

Bonnie: Who would you like to work with in the future locally?

Bucie: Locally.I think I have worked with everyone I have always wanted to work with. Also in this album I’m working with all the people I have always dreamt of working with. The one person I’m dying to work with and might work with is RJ Benjamin and I’m really hoping he agrees (screams with delight)

Bonnie: What are you currently listening to?

Bucie: In my car, I am currently listening to Pastor Benjamin Dube. I love listening to gospel music particularly in the morning. I need to get my mind and heart in good form.

Bonnie: How do you deal with overzealous fans?

Bucie: I always smile because I know they don’t want to hurt me.

Bonnie: What do you regard the lowest depth of misery?

Bucie: When the only time one is happy is when they are high on something.

Bonnie: If you were given a six months sabbatical, what would you do?

Bucie: I’d travel the world with my son.

Bonnie: What makes you very happy?

Bucie: My lil Ninja, my son.

Bonnie: What would you sell your soul for?

Bucie: Nothing!!!!

Bonnie: If you were to write a book about your life, what would the title be?

Bucie: I Lived!

Bonnie: Did you always want to be a singer and one this successful?

Bucie: No hey, I only knew I had a great voice when I used to sing at church. People would tell me that my voice was healing to them, some would just want to hear me sing. I honestly never thought a lot of South Africans would know who I am and receive me and my music well. It’s even a bonus that internationally, my music is received this well. I never thought it would go this far.

Bonnie: Let’s talk about your look. You have had the blonde look, done all sorts of beautiful hairdos, spotted beautiful weaves and now you are rocking your natural hair in plum! What inspires re-inventions?

Bucie: (Laughs) I am not my hair! When I cut my hair, it was a very spiritual decision. I was like it’s 2013, new beginnings, I just wanted to grow it from scratch. I just told myself that with this hair, develops a new attitude, focus, more positivity, more growth and everything just in abundance and I know I am a go-getter, with that and this new attitude then can’t even fathom what’s to come. I’m like, I’m doing everything more forcefully and fearlessly and this new hair is my catalyst (laughs).

Bonnie: How do you deal with bad experiences or negativity?

Bucie: Prayer!

Bonnie: Ever been stalked?

Bucie: A lot!!!! Whether by different people or the same person, I don’t know but hey, I have been stalked.

Bonnie: Wow! How extreme?

Bucie: People get your number, you have no idea where they got it, call in the odd hours of the morning. That never scared me. There was a time when he/she would describe exactly what I was wearing on the day, it was hella freaky but I was just never scared. I would just be like (sings) I have a stalker, I have a stalker. Whenever they would call me, I would be like, “Hey stalker, so you wanna know what I’m wearing today or you already know?..well, I’m wearing a black dress and (whispers) no underwear! Or be like “Hey stalker, today is so hot, I’m not a yellow bone anymore, I’m a brownie” They would just hang up. I would just entertain them so that they stay away and get bored with me because their aim is always to scare.

Bonnie: If you only had R50 in your wallet. What would you do with it?

Bucie: I would buy my son a burger.

Bonnie: Sweet! Please tell us about your son.

Bucie: He is eight years old. He is the love of my life! He is the best thing in my life! I won’t tell you his name though but I have it tatooted on me. He is nameless and amazing! He is the sweetest child ever.

Bonnie: What is the greatest lesson life taught you?

Bucie: Patience is a virtue.

Bonnie: Your last word to your fans?

Bucie: Believe in yourself. If you do not, no one will.

Bonnie: How do they get hold of you?

Bucie: I am on twitter @BucieNqwiliso. I am not on Facebook, someone hacked into my account so I am not there anymore.

Interview by Bonnie Meslane: @BonnieMes

Make up: Mina Shembe @Minaashe
Photography: Jessica Hunkin @Jess_Hunkin
Styling: Sthembiso Mngadi
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South Africa is the hub of all things musical excellence and with that comes a great responsibility to live up to greater standards and continuously provide timeless and world class music. Culolethu Zulu, famously known as Culoe De Song is one of the youngest pioneers in the house music fraternity. He certainly was destined for this, his name Culolethu means “Our song”, is by no means a surprise that today his name is mentioned alongside musical giants.

This young man broke into the industry as a 17 year old music producer and DJ. His debut album A Giant Leap was released in 2009 featuring hits like Gwebindlala featuring Thandiswa Mazwai and Bab’ Omncane featuring the late Busi Mhlongo. This Soulistic Music signee is one of the few young DJs to be part of the Red Bull Music Academy in Barcelona. In 2011 he release his second album Elevation which featured Ternielle Nelson on Woman Woman, Zyon on The One, Shota on Yini Ngawe and Chappel on Make You Move. It also features a remix of Goldfish’s Call Me.

This Eshowe born, 22 year old with a great sense of style, always in his trademark hats and African inspired accessories is working on his latest offering titled Exodus due for release mid- year. Singles like No Contest, He Is Not Ready and Why Haven’t I are already on high rotation on leading radio stations around the country. Moneoa and Ternielle Nelson are some of the names featured on this highly anticipated album. This deep house DJ with a huge international following is set to raise the bar even higher on this album. Having played for international crowds from Thailand, Spain, Dubai to Miami, this globe trotter has heard it all and is about to bring it and own it.

His music has been deemed “phenomenal, spiritual, tribal and amazing” by adoring fans on and off twitter. He is one of the youngest and busiest and sought after DJs in the country, with numerous names in the industry having aspirations of working with him. One could say he is underrated because he is not the in your face type of entertainer but he certainly has the immeasurable talent that very few exude. His media shyness has also served him well as there hasn’t been a bit of controversy written about him.

De Song is a contributor on Euphonik’s show My House every last Sunday of the month, where he showcases new and old music in an exhilarating mix. His music has been received well, with his debut album scoring him a SAMA nomination in the 2009. He also happens to be one of the entertainers that do not believe in winning awards as a form of validation or a stamp of approval even though he stresses his appreciation for his fans and supporters. There is no doubt that this is the year of the underdog-his year and to all his fans get ready to dance and be entertained.
@CuloedeSong on twitter and Culoe De Song on Facebook.

Catch him play at the Africa Rising concert happening on the 27th April- Freedom Day, at the Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown, tickets at Computicket.

By: Bonnie Meslane
@BonnieMes

They stormed on to the music with their chart dominating smash hit “Jukebox”, they have shared a stage with some of South Africa’s top musos and now, their self-titled album has finally hit the shelves. From all corners of Gauteng , Rori, Vic, Tazzy, Nka and Sol have fused their musical talents to form the group – MuzArt. The 5 piece band was establushed in 2009 through the power of social networks, mainly facebook.

No one could have guessed that one of the country’s legends Jabu Nkhanyile’s son Jabu Jr (Nka) would become a DJ nor that TV sensation Rorisang Thandekiso has great vocal ability, but all 5 gifted musicians have managed to combine their talents.

Their sound contains layers of jazz, pop,house, soul and even gospel with the aim to create timeless music that will resonate with people from all walks of life. Despite the group being young, fresh and upbeat, they have an old school feel in their sound. They are influenced by artists like Thandiswa Mazwai, Louie Vega, Sergio Mendez, Fela Kuti, Ray Phiri, Caiphus Semenya – to name a few as music role models. Besides “Jukebox”, other hits include “Let there be Harmony”, “Moemedi” and “Morning Glory” but their 12 track album is a jol to listen to especially on a roadtrip.

The fuse has been lit, the stage has been set as we anticipate MuzArt’s second single. Groups have always broken up at some point in pursuit of solo careers in the past but if the hunger that these guys have is anything to go by, more is expected from them. They’ve managed to turn a lot of listeners into fans including me, a live performance is all I’m looking forward to, just to witness their creative energy on stage.

by: Just Denis (@denphat)

With an illustrious career in music spanning over 20 years the multi‐talented Selaelo Selota has recorded and produced five (5) award‐winning albums for himself namely; Painted Faces, Enchanted Gardens, Stories Lived and Told, The Azanian Songbook and the latest, Lapeng Laka. The former gold miner is now mining the same precious metal, but armed with a guitar rather than a drill. Jucy Africa had a quick chat with the man ahead of his Glenlivet Legacy Live show on the 25^th of April at Katys Palace bar in Sandton.

Jucy Africa – What can people look forward to with regards to your upcoming Glenlivet Show?

Selaelo Selota – People can look forward to experiencing a memorable live performance while enjoying the great atmosphere as we celebrate our Legacy

Between being in studio making music and being on stage on stage, which is your first love?

It will to be Live performance, I love being on stage because I like moments that are raw and inter-active.

You are currently working on a new album, what can your fans expect?

Fans can expect to hear some music for the first time …. something never heard.

What was the inspiration behind your album?

The Album was inspired by love and the social issues which are currently affecting our Nation.

If there was one musician he would like to collaborate with on the international stage, who would it be and why?

Baaba Maal, I love his energy and his performances. He also works for good human rights causes.

What does he regard as his greatest achievement and what’s the once accolade he would like to achieve.

My greatest achievement is being able to use my talent to communicate and also make a  living out of it

By: Just Denis (@denphat)

Pics by: Sony + Capacity Relations

The 27th of April- Freedom day is just around the corner and how else to celebrate it than by putting on your dancing shoes and be mesmerized by beautiful timeless music!

South Africa’s popular music producer and DJ, Black Coffee is hosting his Africa Rising concert at the Walter Sisulu Square. Those who have seen the Africa Rising live DVD recording will know that this is not a concert to be missed.

This concert courtesy of Soulistic Music and Don’t Look Down Convergence Agency has an equally interesting line up with performances from Bucie, Soulstar, Marissa Guzman, Thiwe, Toshi, Tumelo. Shana the group comprising of Demor, Shota and the man himself Black Coffee is also said to be on the line up.

DJs Kabila, Stat3gy and Culoe De Song are some of the supporting acts to make you move on the night.

Tickets are available at Computicket from R150 to R300. Go get your ticket and be part of one of the biggest concerts ever. The show starts at 12h00 for 12 hours! Don’t miss out!

by Bonnie Meslane @BonnieMes

South Africa is richly blessed with musical giants and there is one young lady emerging to claim her spot among them. Thiwe Mbola is this young phenomenal singer signed to Soulistic Music with the voice of an angel. This leggy beauty sat down with us on a one on one interview to let us in on her life and the album she is currently working on!

Bonnie: Who is Thiwe?

Thiwe: Thiwe is a singer, songwriter, entertainer, businesswoman born and bred in the Free State and came to Joburg to find gold.

Bonnie: You broke into the music scene as a 999 Music signee now we hear sounds from Thiwe of Soulistic Music. Tell us about the transition and the entire journey.

Thiwe: I signed with 999 Music when I was 21 and my album was produced and written for me. I therefore didn’t do much but as time went on I yearned for growth as an artist, hence I started with collaborations which gave me the chance to write for the first time. So now being at Soulistic Music, 6 years later I can safely say I have grown as an artist, a performer and songwriter. I have had the opportunity to learn about the business of music through managing myself for the past 5 years and what I know now I couldn’t have learned had I continued having a manager who did everything for me. I am happy with the progress I have made.

Bonnie: You are working on your second album due for release this year. Please tell us who you are working with and what we can expect from it.

Thiwe: I am working on my second album which will be released by Soulistic Music. I am working with Mahlatse Riba who is one of the founding members of Kwani Experience and now part of the duo Sai & Ribatone. I am also going to be doing a few tracks with Keysnow. The album cannot be boxed into one particular genre, there are many elements which will contribute to Thiwe’s sound as she has so many influences.

Bonnie: Why music as a career? Did you study it perhaps?

Thiwe: I’d like to believe this career chose me, it was not in my plans. I grew up being very involved in my cousin Preston Sihlangu’s social life which included his performances, just out of being curious. That curiosity led to working with him on his debut album, then becoming his backing vocalist, then meeting Arthur through him. It’s like my path was chosen for me and I just fell in love with it. I did not study music, I’m just blessed with a beautiful talent.

Why did you leave 999?

Thiwe: I left 999 because my contract had expired. It was a 24 months agreement with two option periods of twelve months each, It was signed on the 15th February 2007 and it ended on the 15th February 2011.

Bonnie: What are highs and lows of being in this industry you in?

Thiwe: The highs of being in this industry is waking up every morning to do what I really love. That keeps me going. Every day I wake up with a plan on how to grow in the industry and I work hard to try and meet the set goals. I am still trying to build my brand so that means not having stability and that can be very discouraging but my passion keeps me going.

Bonnie: Which artists would you like to work with in the future?

Thiwe: There are so many, I’m sucker for incredible talent. I would love to work with my girl Bucie, some local rappers and legends ,like Caiphus Semenya and Tshepo Tshola

Bonnie: Who or what inspires you?

Thiwe: I’m inspired by my family. People who grew up having nothing and went on to be a powerhouse through hard work, such people inspire me. Love inspires me and businesswomen like Khanyi Dhlomo and Basetsana Khumalo inspire me.

Bonnie:What is the first thing you do when you get up?

Thiwe: I open my bedroom windows. The heat at 7 am is ridiculous and I become in desperate need for fresh air…I also grab my phone check some messages, tweets, facebook and BBM (laughs).

Bonnie: What are you currently reading?

Thiwe: I just got myself a copy of Gayton Mckenzie’s A Hustler’s Bible and I can’t wait to read it. I don’t read much but this book I just had to have it.

Bonnie: Who are you listening to now?

Thiwe: I listen to a lot of radio but when I do get a chance to play something it, it’s either Maleh, Eric Bennet or Mrs Carter. I can’t get enough of these three artists.

Bonnie: In an industry of less authenticity,egos, drama and all sorts of things you come across, what is the one thing that keeps you going, persistent and eager to be the best?

Thiwe: I am not a quitter. I’ve been at it since 2004 so giving up means I would have wasted 9 years of my life. Giving up is never an option.

Bonnie: What’s your take on the South African celeb scene?

Thiwe: As fake as people are in this industry, there are a few legit ones. There are people who genuinely care but that’s like 1:10 so I prefer to keep the same circle of friends who are mostly not in the industry.

Bonnie: Which three people do you think are as Jucy as you and deserve to be known to the entire Africa?

Thiwe: Maleh, Zano and Bucie.

Bonnie: Which three places in your city stand out for you and you think should be visited?

Thiwe: I am such a homebody! I wouldn’t know of any cool places to refer anyone visiting. I however, think Newtown Precinct is cool, just to get a taste of our arts and culture, Midrand Chisanyama for good music and good food then a drive to the top of the hill in Northcliff to see the beauty that is Johannesburg.

Bonnie: Ever been bullied on social networks?

Thiwe: (laughs) You can’t really bully me hey, I’m the one personthat can stand up for myself but I make it my mission to not entertain anything that I foresee getting out of control. It’s just not worth it. Entertaining negative energies on social networks is like feeding a monster, rather let the monster be stupid on its own.

Bonnie: What has been the best and the worst advice you have ever received?

Thiwe: The best was receiving an sms from Lira back in 2009 which was a quote from one of her songs Believer. It went like this “believe it with all of your heart, your mind and actions”.

The worst was “If you are unhappy with the situation, don’t voice out your opinion ‘cause they might think you are being a diva and impossible. Good thing I never listened to that because I’d have people walking all over me

Bonnie: What has been the worst or rather baffling thing ever written about you in the papers?

Thiwe: I have been lucky, nothing has been that bad. I hope it stays that way

Bonnie: As the only lady at Soulistic Music, how is it being in the company of well respected producers like DJ Black Coffee?

Thiwe: Being at Soulistic Music is great, they have a clean reputation and are respected world-wide and that is something I intend to use to my advantage. Talent is never enough, hard work and contacts are more important. So, being with the label means doors open up easily than if I were with any other label.

Bonnie: If you only had R50 in your wallet, what would you do with it?

Thiwe: I would go to a fruit and veg and stock up on as much fruit as I can. I can’t get enough, I love me some fruit.

Bonnie: What can you say to your supporters, jamming to your single and eagerly waiting on your album to drop? Thiwe: Thank you for loving and appreciate my work. I hope the album will be worth the wait.

Bonnie: Are you seeing anyone?

Thiwe: Nope, I’m single.

Bonnie: Celebrity crush?

Thiwe: Fezile Mkhanya

Bonnie: What makes you cringe?

Thiwe: Two things. People who chew with their mouths open and those pick their noses using their fingers eeeuwww!

Bonnie: What makes you the happiest?

Thiwe: Going home to my grandmother. I love sitting and chatting to her. I still sleep next to her, something I have done since being a child. The little things make me happy.

Bonnie: Spirituality! Tell us about that part of your life.

Thiwe: Hmmm….okay! I worship God and acknowledge my ancestors. I am blessed with the gift of prophecy and healing. This means prayer is a big part of my life. I’m able to foresee the future through dreams, hence my obsession with trying to interpret dreams. I heal through prayer. I’m able to pick up people’s illnesses and feelings. Any danger coming towards me or someone close to me, I get warned about it before it comes. Let’s just say, we’d need the whole day for me to try and explain everything in detail.

Bonnie: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Thiwe: In 5 years I will be signed under my own label, with my company still managing my affairs. I’ll start off by touring Africa with my band then go on to wow international crowds. I want to re-implement the music business learnership I took part in 2005, these young people need to know the ins and outs of the music business. I’m hoping I’ll be a wife then, a mother to two beautiful souls as well (chuckles). I want to discover, nurture and promote talent. That is something I am really passionate about.

Bonnie: Thank you Thiwe for being incredible and we look forward to your album. Stay Jucy and fabulous!

Thiwe: Thank you so very much! @ThiweMbola

By: Bonnie Meslane @BonnieMes

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Dumi Masilela is one of South Africa’s young entertainers with great potential. This young man first made a name for himself as a soccer star, then went on to wow music fans as one of Idols season 8 contestants, now an actor on one of South Africa’s leading soapies. He looks good, he sings well, he is humble and he is unfortunately in a relationship….I caught up with him nonetheless at SET Venue in Rosebank to hear about his aspirations as an entertainer.

Bonnie: Dumi, welcome to Jucy Africa.

Dumi: Yo wasssup!!!

Bonnie: Briefly tell us about who Dumi is.

Dumi: Dumi is just a kid from Kempton Park, representing Tembisa. A kid that has a dream and all about breaking new barriers, showing people that there is better and there is more out there, even the ordinary person on the street. That’s what I’m all about.

Bonnie: We saw you on Idols, you have also played for Super Sport United. Please tell us about all those experiences.

Dumi: Yeah, I have played for Super Sport United Football Club and University Of Pretoria. I haver had a professional career before getting into entertainment. I got into an accident and I couldn’t play for 3 and a half years, I then spent a lot of time playing my piano and working on my music. Entering Idols was part of my journey from my recovery.

Bonnie: How was the Idols journey?

Dumi: The journey on Idols was very interesting. You know, you see the industry in 3D and you learn on how to be a better performer, engage with a crowd, singing for an audience watching at home. It’s a lot of work, there is a lot of preparation and production stuff that most people don’t get to see.

Bonnie: So what have been your highlights?

Dumi: On Idols, my biggest highlight was on the Top 34 when I sang Danny K’s I Get Up Again. Also the group stages, that’s where it got heated and even more exciting. The energy we had as a group was amazing. We put in a lot of effort into that performance.

Bonnie: Now you are an actor! Tell us about how that came about.

Dumi: Yeah!!!! Miraculously, Rhythm City was watching Idols and I got a call whilst still on Idols. They were like ‘Hey man listen, do come audition for this role, we have a great story”… I with no acting experience was very keen and I decided to go for it. I respect art and I respect the people who study this art and make it come to life, so I had to learn to be able to deliver as much, as far as my character is concerned.

Bonnie: As a new actor in the industry, what really stood out for you? What was so new to you that made you in awe,perhaps?

Dumi: You know what, in acting, I think it’s just taught me to let emotions take control because I think when you are your own person, when you are hurt, it’s somehow easy to hide those emotions.

Bonnie: Now let’s talk about you and the female attention you get. How do you deal?

Dumi: I think as far as that’s concerned, firstly, I’m a guy that takes care of himself and care about my image. When people appreciate that, it’s a bonus. I appreciate it even more when they love my work. The female attention is to just keep me on track. I am just focused on working hard and building my work whilst still looking good.

Bonnie: Let’s talk about you aspirations. What’s next for you and how is the future looking from where you are standing?

Dumi: As far as what’s next for me, I have no idea. I never make decisions regarding my future. I never woke up one day and decided I would play football professionally, nor did I plan to sing and act. It’s just how my stars are lined and I intend to walk in line with them. I am inspired by ordinary people, doing extraordinary things and I strive to be that person inspiring the next person. I don’t think I want to be that cool guy, I want to motivate people.

Bonnie: What’s your take on celebrity life? Is it as glamourous as we perceive it to be? Is it as fake as some people say it is?

Dumi: You can’t really say you know this celebrity life. We encounter different people and the experiences are never the same. For me, it has never been about the fame but about getting a platform to express myself as an artist and to live to inspire. I can’t really say it’s dope but obviously life changes, people recognize you, people appreciate you and listen to you when you speak. You don’t have to be at every event or every magazine, you just need to associate yourself with brands that reasonate with you. I am loving my life and all the things that come with it.

Bonnie: What/who inspires you?

Dumi: I am inspired by my fear. If I fear something then I know that’s something I should go after and attain. I believe that your fear is the one thing that stops you from being better than yourself and you don’t know what’s better than yourself because you are fearing but until you chase it out and rediscover everything. Things I achieve through having feared and having had courage to ditch that fear are the ones I appreciate the most. My life is about progressing and living fully. I am still at the door of my career and I believe I have much more to look forward to, God willing, I will go far. There is a reason I started where I started, there is more to come. I am currently working on my mixtape, then my album so it’s about redefining myself.

Bonnie: Who are the three people that you think you would love to work with in music?

Dumi: There are so many influential people in the game right now that I would love to work with, like AKA, Khuli Chana, Ifani who is doing really well. We need to tell different stories apart from bling, cars and chicks. There are girls who look as good as they do at clubs and yet they are running away from broken homes. I wanna tell such stories in my music.

Bonnie: Idols was a great platform and I’m sure you made friends there. Of all the contestants who are you closest to?

Dumi: I am closest to Obakeng Ramaboa and Khaya Mthethwa.

Bonnie: Now tell us about the three Jucy people you know. The ones you think the entire Africa needs to know about.

Dumi: Whew!!!! I’m sorry but I’ll do a bit of international! Drake is great and I love the fact that he was an actor before becoming this great rapper he is known to be now. Dr Malinga is incredible. People ridicule him but there is no one like him, he stands out and that’s very rare. He has that X factor! Lastly, my Mom! Oh my mom is as Jucy! She is my pillar of strength, that voice of reason. When I’m chilling in studio at night and I can’t hit that note,or I’m sick, she’s the one to drive to the studio, bring me whatever I need, be it med lemon or anything. She sacrifices so much for me.

Bonnie: How spiritual are you?

Dumi: I won’t say I am very spiritual but I have a great relationship with God.

Bonnie: What are you currently reading?

Dumi: There’s a book callled The Shack. It’s about spirituality, adversity and life as a journey.

Bonnie: What are currently listening to now?

Dumi: A lot of Kendrick Lamar! Drake, Bruno Mars, Miguel.

Bonnie: Who are your acting idols?

Dumi: Denzel Washinton….cliched I know! I have also been blessed to work with people like KB Motsilanyane and Peter Se-phuma who have been in this industry for long. I’ts amazing to seee how much effort people put in their craft even after so many years.

Bonnie: Boity/Minnie?

Dumi: None!

Bonnie: Pearl Thusi or Lalla Hirayama?

Dumi: Pearl!

Bonnie: What makes you angry?

Dumi: People who are don’t keep time.

Bonnie: What makes you happy?

Dumi: Love makes me happy.

Bonnie: What is love?

Dumi: Love is the reason why one wants to be a better man, the reason why people grow and realize they are somehow destined to be together.

Bonnie: You are new in the industry, and one of the hottest guys, people are curious. Are you single?

Dumi: I am not single. I am just a normal guy with close people I have known over the years and my girlfriend is one of those people.

Bonnie: How can your fans get hold of you?

Dumi: Please follow me on twitter @Dumi_Masilela1 and on Instagram at Dumi360 and on Facebook I’m Dumi Masilela.

Bonnie: Your last words to your fans?

Dumi: Imagination is like a seed and your brain is like fertile soil so plant your dream and nurture it and learn.

Bonnie: Dumi it’s been a pleasure talking to you, thank you for your time. We wiah you all the best in life. Stay Jucy!!!

Dumi: Dankie much Jucy Africa, keep the swag alive!

By: Bonnie Meslane. Jucy Africa’s Entertainment blogger with Public Administration and Politics degree, who also happens to love fashion, music and all things beautiful and colourful.

@BonnieMes

Photography: Lee @ThickLeeyonce. www.leephottoshots.tumblr.com

Make Up: Mina Shembe @Minaashe

Styling: Sithembiso Mngadi

Location: Set Venue. Rosebank www.setvenue.co.za

Stockists:

Fruitcake 0110248005

Entertainment icon and platinum selling artist Snoop Lion, aka Snoop Dogg, will headline the inaugural MTV Africa All Stars concert in Durban, South Africa on 18 May 2013.  The “Reincarnated” rapper, singer-songwriter, producer, actor and reality star will headline “MTV Africa All Stars KwaZulu-Natal Province”, alongside the most popular contemporary artists from across the African continent.

Snoops most recent project, is a multi-media project capturing hisexploration of reggae music and spiritual growth called, Reincarnated. It features GRAMMY Award-winners Drake, Chris Brown, T.I., Busta Rhymes, Akon, Rita Ora, as well as dancehall stars Popcaan and Mavado, and more.

“MTV Africa All Stars – KwaZulu-Natal Province” will be held at Moses Mabhida Stadium, People’s Park, Durban on 18 May 2013, broadcasting around the world as part of MTV’s acclaimed World Stage franchise on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) and MTV’s global TV network. The rest of the line-up including ticket prices and times will be announced shortly, keep it locked to www.mtvbase.com for more info.