The rich soil of Mpumalanga has not only given to birth breath-taking greenery but amazing talent as well. The people of Bushbuckridge can attest that one of their own, Praise Ntsako Mathebula also known as “Praise Smo” is definitely a product of the rich soil. “My passion for singing is not something I discovered instead I grew into it”, he says. He talks about how initially he wanted to become a drummer and fondly reminisces on childhood memories of him playing with his makeshift drum set under his first audience, the avocado tree in the yard. His interest in singing was ignited by his aunt, Tiyiselani Ndhlovu, who discovered he could sing at a church service and made it her mission to help him nurture the gift. Thanks to her, the passion now runs like a wildfire.
Praise speaks highly of those who have held his hand in both his life and music journey. Upon the list of those treasures he lovingly mentions family members and friends who have played different roles in helping him get to where he is today and emphasizes on the love and support, he has received from them. In the interview he also gushes over Mr Elijah Madiba who is not only his manager but producer as well. “He solidified all the knowledge that I had, he refined it and made it something that is worth the title of being a musician. I can now proudly say I am a musician because of the knowledge that he has given me and the platforms he has exposed me to”, he says.
He passionately talks about the role God has played in his life as well as his music. He instantly quotes his favourite scripture Genesis 15 vrs 1[NIV] “Do not be afraid Abram. I am your shield your very great reward”. Confidence is easily noticed in his voice as he elaborates on how this scripture has anchored his faith and how he uses it as reference to everything which happens in his life including his music. “God is my everything, it’s not just a specific role that He has played but his involvement in everything I do”, he says.
On recent exciting news he has released his debut single titled Pfuxelela which has been welcomed with open arms. This single is part of the 15 tracks in his upcoming album titled Overcame which was recorded live on the 31st of August 2019 at the Rhodes Box Theatre. Not only is he an amazing singer but he is grateful to God for his gift of song writing as well. The songs in his album were beautifully written by him. The single “Pfuxelela” was written in 2016 during a period where he was going through a hard time in his life and was yearning for the revival of God. “We all need revival in one way or another”, he says. Therefore, he wishes that when people listen to the song, they feel revived and also allow God to work on them.
When asked as to what we should expect from him in the near future, he enthusiastically says, “expect God’s work. I am a yielded vessel and I want God to use me”. If you thought “Pfuxelela” was amazing, then you should eagerly anticipate for the release of his album as it will be epic. He shares with us that the album composed of the outpouring of his heart and more beautiful songs.
The single is available on all major digital streaming platforms so go ahead and get it as a revival awaits!
