Sia Mzizi reflects on a mind-blowing 2023, mental health and new music
Many of us got introduced to this vocal powerhouse, Siyabonga Mzizi, affectionately known as Sia through his participation in Idols SA season 17. The twenty-three-year-old entered the spotlight and captured the hearts of many South Africans making his mark and showcasing his exceptional vocal talent as well as his stage presence, making it to the top seven.
As a contestant on the show, Sia navigated the competitive landscape, earning recognition and admiration from viewers across the country. His journey on the show allowed South Africans to witness the emergence of a promising musical talent, leaving a lasting impression that would extend beyond the confines of the competition.
In a candid and introspective conversation with Bars n Rhymes Magazine, he opens up about the rollercoaster that was 2023, releasing new music, finding his sound, mental health, and the exciting prospects that lie ahead.
A year of fun, growth, and productivity
“Three words to describe the year that was 2023 are fun, eye-opening and productive. Starting the year my focus was releasing my music as for the longest time I felt like most of the music that has my name its features and I was at a point where I was like stop stressing about the destination and just approach, God will do the rest,” says Sia.
For him, the year was full of new experiences that challenged, inspired and ultimately contributed to his personal and the growth of his artistry. “Although some things did not go the way I had planned there were major milestones and progress in my career. I got to work with artists such as Da Capo, released my first single with Murumba Pitch called Thando’lwethu and got to work with George Lesley.”
Despite aspirations to work with Russell Zuma and Sun-El Musician not materializing, he remains optimistic, believing that timing is crucial, and his moment will come.
Navigating mental health
“Mentally this year has been exhausting, it got to a point where it was constant comfort before things started happening. Also, emotional intelligence is something I have been struggling with so at times I do not know how to deal with my emotions. I had such a rollercoaster year that forced me to grow and learn how to deal with my emotions and anxiety. This year taught me that I should not question some of the things that I go through and learn to accept things as they are,” he explains.
He emphasizes the importance of self-affirmation, urging himself to acknowledge his achievements and resist unnecessary pressure.
The switch from Amapiano to R&B music
Known for his Amapiano music, Sia decided to explore a new dimension of his artistry. Introducing more R&B elements into his repertoire, he released four singles this year and is set to unveil an EP in March of the coming year. Working closely with producer George Lesley, he expresses excitement about sharing his sound, stories, and creativity with the world.
“I am working on something with Babalwa M which I am super excited about. Super excited! I am at a point where I’m like I am releasing my music, I don’t think I have a sound and I don’t think people know my sound also. Working with George Lesley as my producer, he gets me and for the mere fact that he is a house producer and DJ but also understood what I wanted with this single, Thando’lwethu. It started as a jam session I didn’t even write my lyrics, he was like I am going to play this, you take the mic and just jam.”
The EP will have about five songs, “I don’t want to give away everything all at once I want people to want more. I am hoping to drop an album before the end of 2024 as well.” Adds Sia.
In September he signed with Theko Entertainment, a move that wasn’t initially part of his plan. “I needed help to get to where I want to be.” However, he emphasizes the sense of team and support he feels within the record label, praising Lesley’s efforts in propelling his career forward.
Spiritual connections in music – energy doesn’t lie
His spiritual approach to music led him to collaborate with Earful Soul, marking his first foray into house music. “I love working with people who love their work and are also honest with their craft. With everyone that I have worked with this year, I just love how honest they are with their work.”
Big artists supporting young talent – he says there’s so much to learn from young artists as well and calls for unity and the upliftment of aspiring artists in the industry.
New chapter – November 23 (Sia’s birthday)
As Sia celebrated his birthday on November 23, he reflected on a year of growth, achievement, and unexpected opportunities. With an EP on the horizon, surprise features in the pipeline, and a positive response to his evolving sound, Sia is poised for an exciting future.
“I love my birthday because it is towards the end of the year so if I am still alive by the 23rd there is so much to be grateful for. I had a long prayer on my birthday around midnight because I was so grateful, God has been so amazing. His grace has been hovering over me and I am grateful, I didn’t even feel like going out and popping bottles. That’s when I realised that I am proud of myself and have done so much this year,” shares Sia.
A message of kindness and hope
In the spirit of the festive season, he encourages self-kindness and positivity. “This festive season let’s remember to be kind to ourselves, when you are kind to yourself it is easy to go out there and just preach positivity regardless of what we go through. One of my favourite bible verses is Romans 8:18, it reassures us that whatever we are going through now can never be compared to the wisdom and the light that is coming. The struggles cannot be compared to the victories that are coming. There’s always a rainbow after a storm.”
“I am at a point where I have grown more mentally and my wish for next year is for more growth and wisdom. And giving you guys beautiful music and just healing you guys because that has always been my goal.”
A message for East Rand artists
“I love how we are not shy about where we come from. East Rand artists are about to blow up and dominate the industry. It is going to happen! Keep pushing and never think that no one is listening because that’s our biggest mistake. I also need them to be honest with their work and be authentic. Do what makes sense to you, and be yourself,” says Sia.
Sia’s top three artists for the year
“Tyla is killing it, that’s when you see how great God is. God will make it happen if it is meant for you and we can see it in what he has done for her. It is inspiring for me to see someone my age from South Africa not from a very rich background but killing it overseas, I am inspired. MaWhoo also did great things as well as Buhlebendalo with the whole Shaka iLembe soundtrack.”
