Mandla “Bikizela” Malabela talks about how lockdown has affected his music career.
Despite the difficulties, Malabela plans to release his next single on July 30.
While the pandemic hit his music business hard, he used the time to help young artists like himself harness their creativity.
“I wanted to register at the Department of Arts and Culture database, but I was told they do not register independent artists; so I vented my frustration by raising money to register my own company,” said Malabela.
Thus he started his PR and marketing company in 2016 after struggling to get signed to a record label.
Mathuza Roll-Up (Pty) Ltd has since worked with upcoming artists, including models.
Malabela said that once his business started becoming successful, it was only then he received offers from record labels.
Like many other artists and entrepreneurs, Malabela’s business interests have struggled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“All my bookings for events were cancelled since I cannot travel around; we lost a lot and I am earning less through music.
“My business started to make less income, which has also affected my family,” said Malabela.
Malabela, who writes his own songs, said making music is what keeps him going.
The upcoming release of his new single titled “Bambelela”, which means “to hold on” in isiZulu, is a memoir about himself and the hardships he has experienced as an artist.
“My message in the song is that I want to motivate people by telling them to hold on and pray through whichever circumstances they may find themselves in.”
Bikizela is originally from Nelspruit, but loves the township of Soshanguve where he grew up.
“I always make sure to motivate the young ones to focus and invest in education, pursue their dreams and be independent,” he said.
In his upcoming EP that he is currently working on, he features some new young and local talent.
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