#MusicExchange: Thandeka Dladla
27 Aug 2019
Thandeka Dladla is a versatile vocalist who is equally at home in the jazz and Afro-soul spheres and member of band Unity.
She recently completed her BMus Jazz Vocal degree at the UCT South African College of Music under the tutelage of Nomfundo Xaluva.
She also leads her own quartet in performances in South Africa and is also a part of various bands including The Unity Band which released their debut album Fabric in early 2019 and the Pebble Shakers which also recently released their latest project Echoes of Sophiatown.
On 30 August 2019, you can see this talented vocalist at the Jazz on Red Series at the Radisson Red Hotel at the V&A Waterfront from 8pm. Tickets are available for purchase from Quicket.
What does music mean to you?
Music is being able to say something in a way that words cannot seem to do. The melody and the words, bliss.
What drives you: ego or humility?
Humility but, to think about it, a bit of both isn’t such a bad thing – balance.
Any funny moments on stage?\Too many to count. I remember recently I forgot the words to a song I actually know and started singing my thing. I tried to end the song but the band didn’t get my cue so I just stood there waiting for someone to save me.
It’s your round, what are you drinking?
Gin and tonic.
Dream gig to do?
Performing at the Glastonbury Festival.
What makes you stand out?
My quirkiness, which is paired up with my real interest in deeper social issues.
Nicknames?
At home, they call me Thandies or Tannie.
Pick five words to describe yourself?
Quirky. Generous. Loving. Adventurous. Cheeky.
Whom do you love?
I love me! Haha truly I do, but I love my family so much and I love my friends. I love people who just have a good vibe a aren’t too uptight about life.
What is your favourite word?
Haha. This changes with the seasons. I think now my favourite word is “vibe”.
Favourite fashion garment?
A killer pair of heels or even great pants.
Top of my bucket list?
Skydiving and travelling the world.
Your greatest achievement?
So far, it’ll have to be completing my degree despite all the challenges that I faced throughout the process.
What do you complain about most often?
People who can’t communicate basic things like “I’m running late” or “no I can’t do that right now”. And people who aren’t well-mannered.
What is your fear?
Not fully walking in or living in my purpose.
On stage, I tend to?
Talk a lot.
Where would you like to be right now?
Somewhere quiet with great weather and a pool and good food and a room/space where I can make music and write.
Wishes and dreams?
To travel the world and make music with great musicians. Have my music touch people and move them to become better.
Social media links
