North artist aims higher

Mawasha, popularly known by his stage name, Leon Lee, means business and has proven that with multiple hit songs under his belt.

Musician, Aaron Mawasha AKA Leon Lee from Soshanguve Block R has released multiple hit songs.

Nothing is stopping the 24-year-old Aaron Mawasha from aiming high in the world of music.

Mawasha, popularly known by his stage name, Leon Lee, means business and has proven that with multiple hit songs under his belt.

Born and bred in Soshanguve Block R, the house music lover is not afraid to go after his dreams.

His thriving music career saw him work with household names such as house artists, Trademark, Motswako rapper Fifi Cooper, house group Uhuru, house artist Dr Moruti and other known artists.

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Leon Lee told Rekord that his love for music started at a young age as he loved to watch television and always wondered if singers sang through some sort of machine or if he could also do it.

From a young age, he surrounded himself with music from choirs to school bands.

The vocalist and former member of Soshanguve Block R-based band Jika Boys, began his career focusing on Afro pop and R&B before he ventured into something he thought could grab the attention of his community – house music.

The band released its first single “Jika”, in 2016 and it became an instant hit.

He said the group continued to release singles and building a name for itself in the music industry.

He said the breakthrough came in 2016, when the group joined popular record label, Kalawa Jazmee.

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But Leon Lee had an idea, he wanted to do his own thing leading him to part ways with the group.

“I told them that I am not completely leaving, I wanted to free myself to follow [my] goal of being a solo artist,” he said.

Being a go-getter, Leon Lee released his first solo single “Lala dance” featuring Mezzo Piano, a local house artist, in 2017.

Leon Lee said he believes in giving back to his community by grooming upcoming local artists so features them on most of his singles to promote them and their work.

“In June I will be releasing a single ‘I’m sorry’ which I featured local artists on,” said Leon Lee.

He says he is inspired by American singer, songwriter, dancer and actor Chris Brown and South African musician Mzambiya.

“They were still young when they started doing music and yet they made it in big,” he added.

Leon Lee has had his fair share of challenges but his passion and love for what he does kept him going.

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He said he hoped to work with big names such as South African rapper, songwriter and record producer Cassper Nyovest in future.

“He is a mix his talent and business-mind.

“I would love to work with people that are in the music industry and music business industry. I believe I am an artist with great talent and mind for business,” said Leon Lee.

“I would advise upcoming local artists to be patient and strong. Every artist has a starting point and they should know what they want to achieve.

“Know that as an artist, you are a role model, everyone is watching you. Easy come easy go,” he concluded.