Others, like the legendary South African all-male gospel group, Pure Gold, Amos Mphahlele and many upcoming groups, including those from his Zimbabwean homeland, have benefitted from his skills as an executive producer. From the look of things, many others still will, as he makes a vow to continue in the industry for many more years.
Sangweni, originally from Matobo, a mountainous district in Matabeleland South, fell in love with music years ago, when he was still at primary school in Bulawayo’s dusty high-density suburb of Magwegwe.
More than two decades later, what began as a teenage sparkle has blossomed into a fulltime profession that saw Sangweni abandoning his pursuit of a medical laboratory degree that brought him to South Africa in 1997.
“Way back in primary school, I sang in a choir both at school and in church and that made me realise that I was a talented musician,” the 37-year-old told The Zimbabwean recently.
“Even when I went to boarding school at Matobo High, I continued to sing Imbube with a group called Gospel Movers and that grew my attachment with the industry.”
On arrival in South Africa, Sangweni enrolled for a musical course at one of the academies led by South African jazz legend Johnny Clegg of the Juluka fame.
“I studied music composition and programming at the academy. I also learnt to play the keyboard and when I got out of that place, I was ready to take on the world.”
He played Zulu traditional music with various top musical bands in a genre that has over the years established itself as one of South Africa’s leading musical brands.
“It was really a good and life-changing experience working with those top musicians and while giving something to them, I also learnt a lot,” he added. “For two years I really enjoyed myself and that prepared me for the bigger world. In 1999, after touring various places and studios playing maskandi, I decided I had to do something of my own.”
And something of his own came with the establishment of the musical band The Nations, and its studio, for which Sangweni became the executive producer, having acquired production skills as he performed both in the studio and live on stage.
“I really enjoy making music, but on the last line of producing it and not as a front man. I play musical instruments for those who come to record without full bands. I also teach budding musicians and aspiring producers because to me, this is more of a ministry to serve Jesus Christ. That is why I have chosen to specialises in gospel music ahead of any other genre,” said the experienced producer.
Sangweni’s involvement in the industry expands beyond producing and polishing beats, to designing CD covers and posters and arranging shows in and around Johannesburg for upcoming artists.
“Our doors are always open and my hands are ready to help new artists find their feet in the industry. It is quite a difficult area to venture into, but with good introduction, passion and tender care, all things are possible. Anyone seeking to record or learn something in music, especially those who want to sing gospel, is free to approach me.”
Post published in: Africa News