Metro FM’s Mpumi Mlambo, known as “Msakazi” and a proud representative of Orange Farm, will co-host SABC 1’s new singing and music competition reality television show, uShuni Womhlaba. She will be joined by UkhoziFM’s Mandla Magwaza, affectionately known to his listeners as “Njinji wami”. This exciting show, committed to discovering South Africa’s top talents in the traditional music scene, will debut on 7 July 2024 and will air every Sunday from 18:00 to 19:00.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the show, Msakazi highlighted its potential to unlock South Africa’s talent and provide young people with a significant opportunity. She told Orange Farm News: “I am honoured and happy to be part of uShuni Womhlaba. Our country has many unknown, talented stars that need to shine on a national platform. I urge all South Africans to watch and participate in the show. I look forward to both in-person and online engagement.”
Magwaza also emphasized the show’s role in preserving South Africa’s cultural diversity. “South Africa is a country rich with talent in many spheres of life. When it comes to music, arts, and culture, we excel even more, producing music that crosses borders and touches people everywhere in the world. I am confident that this show will unearth the best of Maskandi, Mbaqanga, Isicathamiya, Afro-pop, and traditional music talent. I am honoured to be a part of this show,” Magwaza said.
uShuni Womhlaba will feature 40 talented contestants selected through regional and online auditions, making this opportunity accessible to aspiring musicians nationwide. The show, running for 16 weeks and ending in October 2024, will have contestants compete in three entertaining, exciting, and emotional rounds, putting their musical skills to the test.
Incredible prizes await the winner, including a grand cash prize, a once-in-a-lifetime artist mentorship, and a recording deal to produce an album with Mzansi’s finest. The second and third prize winners will also receive prizes to help advance their music careers.
The show will feature seasoned judges who have made significant impacts on the South African music scene. This panel includes rapper and songwriter Big Zulu, talented composer and singer Msaki, rapper, musician, actress, and poet Sho Madjozi, and veteran Maskandi musician Phuzekhemisi. Their expertise will guide the contestants through different stages of the competition.
SABC 1 and Telkom SA, long-time supporters and partners of television programs that unearth South Africa’s finest talent, are backing this show. Stay tuned to the uShuni Womhlaba website www.ushuniwomhlaba.tv and social media platforms for details on how you can be part of the show and for more information.
