Ntando Mthetwa: The purpose of the Hlubi clan
Ntando Yamahlubi’s musical journey traces its origins to his upbringing in a family deeply intertwined with the music industry. Join us as we embark on a musical journey, delving into the life, inspirations, and aspirations of this sensational artist.
In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his creative process, the challenges he’s overcome, and the message he hopes to convey through his music.
Where and how it all started for him
“Growing up I was surrounded by industry legends and icons who were more like family. This has played a major role in my discovering my love for singing, songwriting and, music as a whole. My Sundays always consisted of early mornings of praise and worship at the local St Andrews church in KwaThema and, being the youngest to form part of the youth choir, to being selected as one of the lead singers which, has also contributed towards me realising that this is more than just an ability of being able to recite a melody from my vocal box.”
“It was more of a talent that needed to be nurtured and protected. I remember 2012, 13 years of age making my debut performance at a youth concert with over 100 people attending. One of the most memorable days of my upcoming. The audience was in awe, some even crying in joy and others giving monetary contributions. I believe that this was where it all started. Fast forward to being mentored by the likes of Mpupile Mathibe, Bongani Vilakazi, Joe Nina, Nico Phooko and several other local artists as well as, working alongside these incredible individuals on various music and studio productions.”
“The highlight of it all had to be my television debut on SABC 1 performing a tribute to the late former President Nelson Mandela shortly after his passing which, opened so many doors. At this stage, it was quite evident that this was indeed a talent called to make a change in society, so I began embarking on solo studio works and collaborations, doing research and channelling myself in improving and becoming the best in my lane. My biggest motivation was my family, most importantly my mother and aunts.”
Musical influences that have profoundly impacted his style and approach include the likes of Frank Sinatra, Simply Red, Victor Ntoni, Themba Mkhize, and Sibongile Khumalo, introduced to these artists by his parents while growing up. Most recently he has discovered a group called Seba Kaapstad. “I am a lover of live music settings, so all these artists I have mentioned have all contributed significantly to keeping me sane, as well as have influenced my way of writing, interpreting and composing music. Those who listen to my music can attest to the fact that I have an old soul, especially with the way I convey a message or story in my songs.”
Becoming Yama’ Hlubi
After cycling through a series of stage names, from Deacon_October to Ntando M, he ultimately settled on Ntando Yamahlubi.
“My first year in varsity is when I finally decided on my stage name. This is the part of an individual’s life where you are channelling into who you will become and this was what I could call my stage of fully discovering myself, from both a cultural and spiritual perspective.
Having been fathered by a man who was born in the Hlubi clan allowed me to claim the title Ntando Yamahlubi which means the purpose of the Hlubi Clan. So, to be brutally honest this one is chosen by my forefathers, it has since gelled and become a household name in the industry fortunately enough,” says Ntando.
His sound draws inspiration from genres as varied as Jazz, African rhythms, Hip-Hop, Gospel, and indigenous sounds from around the world. However, Ntando prefers not to be confined by genre labels, choosing instead to describe his sound simply as Music.
Creating music that resonates with his audience
“My songwriting is immensely inspired by my life experiences; the struggles, the joys of it, the heartbreaks, the moments that bring growth, the death of loved ones, and most importantly the person I choose to become through it all.”
On audiences relating to his music, “This is simply because we are all human and although our experiences are not identically the same, we all go through more or less the same challenges. It is what we choose to become through it all, which I always emphasise. What I aim to achieve in my songwriting is positivity and to bring out the change in us all as a society. I believe that my strongest point is my writing skills, and that is how I aim to achieve all this, through my ability to be able to write.”
Through his music, he can evoke emotions and convey powerful messages by writing music that people can relate to. “It’s easier for people to relate to what hits home. In other words, I write what people want to hear because they have undergone similar situations. And, once we intertwine this with harmonic vocals as well as, profound chord work it musically becomes relatable. Having grown up in a church setting and influenced by gospel music I have discovered that I master the ability to compliment the chords with vocal harmonies which gives off a sense of comfort to the soul. Combining all of these elements with unique percussions I can successfully manage to achieve the evoking of the desired response.”
The music industry is not without its challenges, and Ntando has faced his fair share. He details how he continues to rise above his obstacles and stay committed to his musical path. “Firstly, this is not for the faint-hearted simply because tomorrow is one step closer the next day is 10 steps backwards. What I have learnt from all my unfavourable experiences in the industry is that one’s success lies in their own hands. I have been through the most tormenting experiences from free performances to not being rightfully accredited on productions I have immensely contributed towards, to making favours which were not returned and starting from scratch.”
“I still chose myself through it all once again, I still chose to become the best version of myself using these experiences as my motivation to rise above it all. I know what I want at the end of the day, everything else is just a contribution to me overcoming my struggles and successfully achieving the ultimate goal – being to become the change.”
How collaborations have impacted his growth as an artist
“In the number of years I have been working on music I have collaborated with various artists both local and prominent. I must say all these were amazing simply because they taught me how to get out of my comfort zone.”
“However, the most memorable of them all has to be my feature with my fellow brothers Eeque, Sia Mzizi, 2Kultured, and Jandas who is currently doing the most. We recorded a song titled ‘Basvulele’ which has become a manifestation for us all contributors. This song has placed all our careers on a pedestal, the doors are opening for us all and we are starting to see a light at the end of this tunnel.”
His advice to aspiring musicians looking to find their unique voice and style, in terms of developing their artistic identity is, “Practice. This makes it all perfect, drawing inspiration from your favourite artists, listening to various sounds and most importantly doing research. If this is what you love then you should know all about it.”
The music industry is dynamic and ever-changing he says being on top of the ‘game’ in terms of new trends is crucial. Adding that it is ideal to constantly research what is new and upcoming. “Possibly rubbing shoulders with the new emerging artists putting yourself in their shoes to successfully be able to complement new sounds, with what you have always been doing. Research is therefore pivotal in the case of constantly being relevant, and remember while exposing yourself to the new trends, do not forget your identity in the interim.”
Out of his discography his debut single ‘Silindile’ still holds a special place in his heart. “The composition of this song came at a very sensitive time in my life when I had just lost my father, in the final months of my first year in varsity. I was under a dark cloud if I could put it that way, and I was in contemplation with myself on whether I will be embarking on a music career or not. The composition was sparked by a melody played on an acoustic guitar by a colleague who was studying towards a music degree at the same institution and I was in the communication faculty.”
“It took a full year to get the song recorded and polished, so you can imagine how much we put into the lyricism, the instruments as well as production. Having composed the song in the Free State, Bloemfontein and only recording it a year after in my hometown was worth it because in all this I was satisfied with the final product, and the response was just as incredible.”
Music often serves as a source of solace and inspiration, especially during challenging times. He believes that music plays a multifaceted role in providing healing and resilience to its audience by facilitating emotional expression, reducing stress, offering distraction and escapism, fostering community, and inspiring individuals to overcome challenges.
It serves as a universal language that can soothe, uplift, and empower people during both the best and worst of times.
Ntando Yamahlubi
Finding the balance between artistry and business
“This is an ongoing process. It requires a combination of creativity, business acumen, and a commitment to your craft. By navigating this balance thoughtfully, you can increase your chances of reaching a wider audience while staying true to your artistic vision,” shares Ntando.
The lessons he has learned about himself through his music career include self-expression, resilience, adaptability, patience and persistence not leaving out identity and authenticity. Of which he describes as ‘valuable’ in various aspects of one’s life.
Insight into his creative process
“It is quite eye-raising or rather bizarre knowing that I prefer to write songs on the spot, this is simply because I love being within the creative process and feeding off from the energies of all the collaborators. It is more like we all draw inspiration from one another, I can write music on my own yes however, I prefer being within the process from the creation of the loop to the percussion, composing of the melody from the chords, to the addition of the supporting instruments and finally the vocal work. In the process of the creation of the beat, I channel myself to write lyrics that will somewhat gel with the instruments as I am also one of them, I have discussions with all the collaborators in the interim just to see where everyone’s minds are. The most important element of it all is to allow everyone in the room to have a say in the creative process as we have to contribute at the end of the day.”
His thoughts on the power of music and how music can contribute to positive change or awareness in the world he says, “Ultimately, how music contributes to positive change and awareness depends on the artist’s passion, values, and the issues they choose to champion. Music has the unique ability to touch people’s hearts and minds, making it a potent tool for inspiring, uniting, and driving positive change in the world.”
A message to aspiring artists
“Stay true to who you are, draw inspiration from your predecessors, but never lose your identity trying to fit in. Strive to become the change in society and the best in your lane. The WORLD is your oyster!”
For Ntando, music is more than an art form; it’s a vehicle for change. His dream extends beyond the charts and accolades; he aspires to become a teacher of song, imparting his knowledge and experience to aspiring musicians, and nurturing the next generation of artists. He envisions a legacy that continues to inspire and make a difference long after his melodies have faded.
