Gatsheni Wins SATMA Maskandi Artist of the Year
Renowned South African Maskandi artist “Gatsheni Igagu LasoPhongolo” Ndlovu has added another remarkable achievement to his illustrious career in 2024 by winning an award at the prestigious South African Traditional Music Achievements (SATMA). The awards ceremony, which celebrates excellence in traditional music, took place on November 30, 2024, at The Globe, Suncoast Casino, Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal. Competing against other esteemed Maskandi artists such as Sminofu, Gqizile, Shumi Lensizwa, and Mdumazi, Khuzani emerged victorious after a competitive voting process. This latest accolade marks his fourth award in 2024, underscoring his dominance in the Maskandi music scene.
Gatsheni’s year of triumph began with a groundbreaking moment at the Mother of All Maskandi Festival held in Durban, where he won a coveted Toyota Quantum, a significant prize that highlighted his popularity and the love fans have for his music. His second recognition came at the Cultural and Creative Awards, where he outshone global star Tyla, earning the Best Newcomer Award. Both events marked the inaugural stage of his 2024 award journey. His third achievement was at the South African Music Awards (SAMA), where he took home two awards: Best Male Artist of the Year and Best Maskandi Album of the Year, for his acclaimed 2024 album titled Uyihlo Nonyoko. These wins cemented his position as a trailblazer in Maskandi and South African music as a whole.
In a recent interview with Daily Sun, Gatsheni opened up about his humble beginnings and how his challenging upbringing shaped his resilience and determination. He shared that he was born into a disadvantaged family, with his mother being paralyzed and his father passing away at an early age. Despite these hardships, he moved to Johannesburg to pursue his dreams of becoming a musician. “Being born into a disadvantaged family doesn’t mean you’ll die poor; it’s a training ground to change things,” Gatsheni stated, emphasizing that his journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith.
Reflecting on his success, Gatsheni expressed profound gratitude and pride in the growing recognition of Maskandi music. “This recognition at the SAMAs means so much for us Maskandi musicians. It’s proof that our genre is finally reaching a level where it can compete with other styles. It brings me joy and motivates me to work even harder to make it easier for the next generation,” he said. His words highlight his commitment to not only advancing his career but also paving the way for upcoming artists in the genre.
Gatsheni’s music, known for its deep cultural roots and captivating storytelling, has resonated with fans far beyond the boundaries of Maskandi’s traditional audience. His ability to modernize the genre while maintaining its authenticity has earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his reputation as a pioneer. The album Uyihlo Nonyoko, which contributed to his SAMA wins, is a reflection of his artistic growth, addressing themes of resilience, heritage, and societal struggles.
This string of accolades in 2024 not only cements Gatsheni’s status as a leading figure in the South African music industry but also highlights the growing appreciation for traditional music forms like Maskandi. His achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and a testament to the transformative power of music rooted in culture and authenticity. As Gatsheni looks ahead, his success story continues to inspire both fans and fellow musicians, proving that with determination and passion, barriers can be broken, and new heights can be reached.
References:
1. Gatsheni Official Facebook page
2. Wikipedia
