An athlete turned artist, Clement Mandlakhe Masikane is making a name for himself in the Maskandi music world.
As part of the group Ama Sms, Clement and his partner, Mthokosizi Buthelezi, are burning up the airwaves and have been invited to perform at shows across South Africa and even beyond international borders.
Clement was born in Msinga but moved to Wasbank later in life. An accomplished athlete growing up, he used the money he had won in races to buy himself a keyboard. After an injury put his athletics career on hold, Clement turned his attention to another passion of his – music.
At first, Clement started slow and taught himself how to play instruments. It was around that time he had an encounter with a singer from Dundee Voices of Joy, who took him under his wing and taught him. Now more confident in his abilities and armed with the knowledge he had talent, Clement worked on creating his own music.
In 2010 however, Clement realised his dancer, Mthokosizi, had a talent for singing as well. Mthokosizi, who is also from Wasbank, teamed up with Clement to form Ama Sms.
Since the group’s formation, it has made quite a name for itself on the Maskandi music stage, and this year released a debut album. They said securing a record deal was difficult, but perseverance paid off and the duo is now garnering attention. Their album also features a cover of Dolly Parton’s It’s Too Late to Love Me Now.
The song has already received airplay on local radio and the duo recently completed shooting a video for the track. Clement added he always loved the song growing up and saw a chance to make a Maskandi version of it after an ex tried to get back together with him – he told her it was too late.
Ama Sms has performed around the country and could be featured at an international music festival in Richards Bay in December. Residents are encouraged to message the words AMA SMS to 40621 at a cost of R1, with entries unlimited.
Clement hopes the group receives enough votes to be included in the final lineup, so its talent could be shared with many more people. Ama Sms thanks Alfa Media for its help in releasing the debut album and in future hopes to help many young artists nurture their talents and make their small towns proud.
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