JOBURG - Johannesburg-based favourite Afro soul singer and songwriter, Gugulethu Khumalo, popularly known as Berita, has become one of the most sought after songbirds.
The Johannesburg-based favourite Afro soul singer and songwriter, Gugulethu Khumalo, popularly known as Berita, has become one of the most sought after songbirds.
The award-winning singer was born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and moved to New Zealand at the tender age of 16, as her parents took on employment as dairy workers, there. “Growing up I was more of an educational person, but being out of Africa and experiencing that loneliness, made me want to sing and be impactful in my society,” expressed Berita.
At just 25 years old, Berita has a track record that has classified her as one of the most important voices of her generation and is spearheading the Afro soul genre with a fresh songwriting style that appeals to all.
The music sensation recently released another chart-topping single titled, Nguwe Wedwa, composed and produced by South African music veteran, Mojalife Thebe, affectionately known as Mjakes in the music industry.
“Nguwe Wedwa is a song I wrote inspired by a very special personal experience of love” shared Berita.
“In writing the lyrics I was particularly intrigued by the notion of one completely giving themselves over to the love of their life. I reminisced over my childhood experiences of being a flower girl at family weddings, and I remember, in the midst of summer dance tracks, there was always a beautiful African pop ballad that was a favourite,” she said.
Gugulethu Khumalo affectionately known as Berita.
Berita was winner of the 12th Metro Awards for Best African Album with her debut 12-track album, Conquering Spirit.
She is now currently signed under Sandton-based record label Vth Season and is working on her third album, which is scheduled to debut in March next year.
“The highlight for me this year has been being in the studio and working on my album; I can’t wait for the rest of the world to hear it,” said Berita.
The hitmaker said her biggest dream now is to collaborate with her role model and internationally recognised and highly respected singer, Yvonne Chaka Chaka. “I grew up listening to her and I am just inspired by the women she is and all the work she does throughout the continent,” she said.
