Coming Full Circle

Award-winning producer and composer Lebo M is synonymous with the popular Lion King soundtracks. Having worked behind the scenes to put SA on the map, and with a new Showmax reality series, he finally takes his rightful place at centre stage

- Thobeka Phanyeko

GQ: Coming Home is the third original reality series on Showmax. Congratulations! Let’s talk about this full-circle moment and what it means to you?

Lebo M: This has been the scariest moment in front of the camera in my life. I’ve always preferred to be behind it. Now, I’m feeling overexposed. But f*ck it, I’ll live!

GQ: You’re well known for your work on The Lion King, The Power of One, The Outbreak, the 2010 FIFA World Cup and many other productions. Why was it important for you to introduce South Africans to a different side to you?

LM: I love the idea that no one can put a face to the name Lebo M. But I’ve realised that my work and career can have a positive impact on young people in my country of birth, especially those who’re born into poverty and are disadvantaged like I was. It became clear over the years that my journey, career and story can have a positive impact on those that are hopeless and come from my humble beginnings.

GQ: How would you describe the feeling of being vulnerable in front of the camera?