South African singer, Simphiwe Dana is one of the leading musician in her region and has been classified as a living legend. Her style of music speaks words that stimulate the brain into being socially conscious of the challenges faced in South Africa and the world as a whole. With four distintive albums, Dana is passionate about community upliftment and soci-economic development promoting her stage her coming concert tagged ‘ Simphiwe Dana symphony experience’. In the chat with MUTIAT ALLI, Dana spoke on the journey so far, her coming event featuring Asa, why she is passionate about development amongst others.
What is the motive behind your coming show ‘Simphiwe Dana Symphony Experience?
The show is a first of its kind in South Africa, possibly a first in Africa as a whole. The idea is to cross pollinate African cultures so as to show how beautiful our differences are, as Africans. Also to showcase the best of our cultures. In this world of pop music, we tend to forget the beauty of our origins. This show will be a window to who we truly are.
Why the choice of Asa and Equitorial Guinea act, Buika?
Asa is my friend, sister and peer. I have been plotting and scheming to work with her for the longest time. Had I been Nigerian, I would have been an Asa. Had I been an African raised in Spain, I would have been a Buika. These 2 women are the best part of the African continent. These 2 women fly the African flag. I am only ever so honored to appear next to them.
What message is the said symphony targeted as showcasing?
As the convener of the African Union’s Arts and Culture chapter, perhaps I’m always subconsciously creating spaces for us to see ourselves as one people. There’s no better way to unite than when we familiarize ourselves with each other through introducing our cultures to each other. Unity is the only way we will see our continent progress. Africa has everything it needs. We don’t need China or America. We have everything. We just don’t know each other enough to realize this.
Let’s talk about you and Music, how did the journey started?
I’m just a village girl who is gifted with the power of music. The universe conspired to get me to where I am today. And the universe continues to conspire in my favor.
Did you set out to be a musician?
Ever since I was a little child, all I wanted was to sing.
With four album to your name! What is next for you music wise?
I’m taking a break from writing albums. I feel a strong urge to find myself. Of course music is my only source of income, and will continue to be. But, I don’t want to feel pressured to release an album. I want to live and love, and have music be the outcome. I will be going back to touring. Something I stopped doing so I could raise my 2 kids. I would love to tour Nigeria.
How do you see music in Nigeria compared to South Africa?
We are very similar actually. I dare say pop acts in SA right now, look to Nigeria for inspiration. Personally I adore Nigerian music. I even wrote a song for Fela, called Fela’s Azania. Fela is one of my muses. The song is called Fela’s Azania because I love SA the same way Fela loved Nigeria.
As one of South Africa’s most sought after singer, any plan or have you worked with any Nigerian artiste before?
Sadly I have not as yet. But watch this space.
You are one of the few singer who is passionate about awareness and change of socio-economic challanges faced in communities across south Africa, why are you so into this cause?
I had a very hard childhood. I believe this made me empathetic. I believe change is up to the individual. If we all believe in justice we can create a better world to live in. Change is not a far fetched dream
Your music is included in the curriculum of Oxfored University, England, how does that makes you feel?
I have made my mother proud. All her hard work raising me has born fruit. My mother is my hero.
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