#MusicExchange: Thembeka Tabia Khumalo

She has just released her debut album on all digital platforms entitled The Journey under the name her stage name, Tabia. Do take a listen and remember her name. An amazing artist born and raised in Soweto, watch her star rise even more.

I chat to her to find out more.

When are you happiest?

I’m happiest when I’m one with my family (my mom and siblings), we’re in true harmony and there’s nothing else in the world except us. There’s no better pleasure than that, nowhere to be and nothing to worry about except enjoying a delicious meal with over endless laughter.

What does music mean to you?

Music is one of, if not the only important, the aspects of my life. It means the world to me, it’s a way I relate to life, the world, and how I express myself. It keeps me company on lonely days, its something I can go to whenever I need it. It’s one’s identity.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?

Getting to see the excitement from the audience, having an appreciative audience, and the applause and getting to see so much of the country and the rest of the world.

What drives you: ego or humility?

I’m driven by humility. It’s an asset for self-improvement, a receptive to opportunities and a virtue to inner well-being. It’s a place where you’re free from pride and arrogance, have a realistic appreciation of your great strengths, but also your weaknesses

Any funny moments on stage?

I can’t dance, so every time I try to, I look like a headless chicken and that makes the audience to laugh at me. In a funny way, though, ‘cause I end up laughing at myself. I think they are used to my moves by now.

What is your most treasured possession?

My most treasured possession has to be my grandma’s photo in my purse. This picture keeps her memory alive, even she is no longer with us. I carry her everywhere I go. I would give it to my children in the future, so they will know and see this amazing woman that carried our family through thick and thin and tell the stories to their future children and grandchildren.

It’s your round, what are you drinking?

Steelworks virgin.

What makes you stand out?

Hmm, I can say I’m a well-rounded and versatile worker, I’m conscious, disciplined, emotionally intelligent, master collaborator, I lead by example if I have to say so myself and my big, beautiful everlasting smile on my face.

If you were not a musician what would you do?

A journalist. Collect, develop, and distribute news and spreading consciousness to my people, inform, and educate people with issues and how they affect their lives and help create solutions.

Pick five words to describe yourself?

Dependable, opinionated, feisty, emotional, and outspoken.

What song changed your life?

Impilo from my album. It adds so much value in my life and encourages me every day and reminds of where I come from and what I’ve accomplished through patience, determination, and dedication; reformed my life in an amazing way.

Favourite fashion garment?

Jeans. I love being comfortable at all times and I’m always on the road.

Top of your bucket list?

Doing a one-woman show for at least one million people.

Your greatest achievement?

Winning my first competition at the age of 15 at a talent show, winning an award again for Best AfroSoul at the Sauma Awards and releasing my album.

What is your fear?

Pain, loss, shame, and rejection.

On stage, I tend to?

I tend to go crazy or throw myself in a character and lose myself in a moment.

Where would you like to be right now?

I want to be right here where I am. My music is very important to me and I’ll do anything to move it forward, I honestly can’t think of anywhere else I would rather be than here.

Social media links:

FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
@tabiasongbird