MOKOPANE – THAPELO Terrence Mabusela, who is better known as Mononym Terrence, from Malokong Kop in Mokopane uses his music to address social issues.
Topics that are dominant in his second album, Tshelete ya Bana, include the misuse of the child grant and relationship difficulties.
Tshelete ya Bana is a follow-up to his 2012 debut album, O Pelo Yaka.
Terrence says the title song of the second album is a critique of the misuse of the child grant by mothers.
“Instead of looking after children, women use the money to do their nails, buy mini skirts, get involved in illegal gambling and buy alcohol,” says Terrence.
He says he sees the album as an important social record.
“I would like this song to be played by government and radio stations because it spreads an important message that affects the whole society.”
He says he wants people to know him and be inspired by his positive life story of being a high school drop-out to being a musician.
Terrence says he started doing music at the age of 18, singing at church. “That is when I decided to take music as a full time career because I love singing and have a passion for music.” He says he then went to work in a clothing shop to raise money towards recording his music.
Terrence says his biggest challenges are getting sponsorship and piracy.
“I have had cases where people perform my songs and make a name for themselves. I urge all artists to come together and stand against piracy.”
Besides pursuing his music, Terrence dreams of becoming a successful family man. “Although I would like to be known all over the country as a musician, I also want a family, my own car and house. I dream of a beautiful wedding and a great family.”
He encourages aspirant musicians to take time to learn about music and not to follow trends. “Young musicians must know that music is not something you do just to follow the crowd. You must have a passion and a God-given talent to do it.”
