Gugulethu Ngubane or simple known by her stage name Gugu is an Amapiano and Afro-Pop vocalist born in Orlando East before she moved to Qwaqwa, Free State at the age of 12.
After Matric, Gugu pursued her further studies and in 2005, had the opportunity to receive vocal training and study music at the University of Concordia in Canada, a project sponsored by Yamaha.
She then began working with various jazz artists in South Africa and has maintained consistency in her career ever since.
ALSO READ: Trayce paves his way up in entertainment industry
Gugu has performed on some of Africa’s biggest stages and festivals, including The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Cherry Festival, Macufe Festival, Maluti Annual Festival and the 46664 Mandela Concert held at the UK Convention Centre.
She has shared stages with prominent artists such as Will Smith, Vusi Mahlasela, Hugh Masekela, HHP, Tshepo Tshola, Cassper Nyovest, Zonke, Unathi, Kabza de Small, Woza Africa, Bucie, BOP, and Black Coffee among many others.
In 2020, Gugu recorded three Amapiano songs that gained her popularity, including Fohloza and Ngyazthandela, where she was featured by Afrotoniq.
Ngyazthandela was also nominated for Best Newcomer of the Year at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) 28.
To reflect on why she ventured into Amapiano coming from Jazz Gugu said, “I embarked on a journey of Amapiano because I saw the opportunity and used it. I was inspired by the kasi sound and its elements, how people responded to the new sound that represents our diversity and different cultures as South Africans.”
She later collaborated with Boohle and Josiah De Disciple on the song Tata, and from there, her success continued to grow.
ALSO READ: Endless entertainment and fun on Disney Insider
Gugu went on to record hits with T-Man SA and MFR Souls and in 2023, she worked with Amapiano hitmakers such as Ntokzin, Mdu Aka Trp, 2woshort, Bassie, and MacG from Podcast and Chill.
Her 2022 single Ditoro Tsaka was selected by Sugar Eve Media to feature in the Qwakanda Documentary on ETV.
This year, Gugu released two hit singles Lwangempela featuring T-man SA and Bassie in March, and Long Distance featuring 2point1 in May.
“I have worked with these Amapiano hit makers and mostly I’ve sung about love, money, hustle, and other things.
“I have learned that every one of them has their authentic sound and that’s how their songs gain momentum and maintain consistency because Amapiano is a lifestyle,” said Gugu.
“Even the world is starting to recognise and follow our music and the culture of Amapiano. My new single Lwangempela featuringt T – Man SA and Bessie has a strong message about being devoted to someone but if they don’t return the same energy then they must leave you alone. This song is about love, peace and sanity.”
Facebook @Gugu_Live
Instagram @Gugursa
TikTok @Gugu_Ngyazthandela
gugu@lujahpheloent.com
