LIMPOPO – “Slow progress beats no progress.”
These are the words of Leon Tendani Godzwana, a rap and trap soul artist from Ha-Mandiwana village in Nzhelele. He goes by the stage name LeonSV and has been in the music industry for nine years. “Although I identify with rap and trap soul, I’m flexible and able to adapt to any genre,” he said.
LeonSV writes his own songs, which are inspired by his life experiences, which included the pain of losing his mother, the only person he says supported his music. He added that being in the music industry is not easy as it requires a strong heart and dedication to make it to the top. “The music industry is challenging. It requires a willingness and eagerness to learn because the industry is not as soft as a pillow anymore,” he said.
He has two singles; Gassin’ and Engqondweni which feature on his album Enemy of Progress. He is currently working on a new album entitled, 11:11 which he will release on 11 November. “I believe this is the most unique sound I’ve ever worked on as my aim is to reach out to different artists across Africa, and the world as a whole. The album is more focused on thought, feelings and dreams and eagerness to grow as a musician and in real life,” he said.
Another challenge he faces as an up-and-coming artist is getting bookings, considering being an independent artist not signed to a record label. “Financially, it’s hard as an up-and-coming artist even when I’m doing my level best to invest in my music. At times it happens that I need to purchase beats but there’s no money, but I am not giving up on my dreams.” He urges fellow up-and-coming rising stars to not give up on their dreams.
His music can be accessed on SoundCloud under LeonSV_015, Immitter.com and Dokofala.com. Check him out on Facebook (Leonsiren), Instagram (Leonsv_015) and Twitter (LeonSV_015).
reporter04@nmgroup.co.za
