THE Soulful MAESTRO

Samthing Soweto has amassed a string of record-breaking hits, sold out shows nationwide, and established himself as one of the continent's most versatile artists - yet he believes this is only the beginning of his journey

- Molife Kumona

FOR SAMTHING SOWETO, MUSIC IS MORE THAN JUST NOTES AND LYRICS – it’s a medium for storytelling and connection. ‘Music is my language,’ he explains. ‘It’s how I express what words alone can’t capture. When I write a song, I pour my heart into every lyric, every note. I want people to feel something real that touches their soul.’

Samkelo Lelethu Mdolomba, better known as Samthing Soweto, has risen to prominence in the music scene by blending afro-soul, jazz and acapella into a unique style that connects deeply with fans on both a musical and an emotional level. Growing up in Soweto, he was surrounded by the rich tunes of traditional Maskandi and the soulful sounds of gospel hymns that filled the airwaves.

‘Samkelo is my actual name. ‘Thing’ is my music in Soweto; basically my stage name. I came up with it when I was in grade 11. I’m 36 now, and I don’t necessarily think it’s cool; but perhaps it is, because people like it and I’m able to make a living out of it. However, I live most of my life not as Samthing Soweto but as Samkelo,’ he explains.

He dropped out of school briefly due to difficulties with reading and writing, and reveals that school was really tough for him. ‘I hated it. I even repeated Grade 3. And that didn’t solve the problem because there would always be surprise spelling tests, which affected my confidence.