Busiswa

There is a vibration that comes with new music voice Busiswa Gqulu, who is a clear and explosive example of what happens when you add poetry to music. Introduced to the wider South African music scene and the world on Zinhle’s worldwide hit “My Name Is”, the evocative and zestful artist has been called a ‘fresh voice that resonates with your inner soul.’ Her powerful musical interaction with words on music has that emotive and captivating flair, resulting in a vibrant and astonishing effect.

Born in the Eastern cape city of Umtata in Norwood, Busiswa spent her early years under the care and guidance of her late mother and grandmother who were a great influence in shaping her strong personality.

Busiswa was introduced to reading and books by her primary English teacher and beams when she still remembers her first book “Little Women”. Reading and writing became a great love for her and later lead to an interest in poetry. She has been performing poetry for 10 years at poetry sessions, festivals and at corporate and charity events. Most notably, she has twice been a headliner at Africa’s biggest poetry festivals alongside poets from around the world.

She has shared the stage with the likes of Mak Manaka, lebo Mashile, Gcina Mhlophe and others. She makes for an articulate and witty MC. To form a career in the entertainment industry, she started experimenting with combining the spoken word and dance music in 2010 where she recorded with house music producer’s sir Bubzin and DJ clap. When these DJs got signed to the Kalawa Jazzmee label, Busiswa’s voice was heard by one of the directors – music legend Oscar “oskido” Mdlongwa.

Busiswa has also worked with Uhuru, Mono T and Mapiano.

“I enjoy music that makes me happy. I try to achieve that effect when I get involved in a song,“ she says.
Calling herself an advocate of women’s rights as well, Busiswa adds that she also tries through her poetry to be positive all the time.

“I try to instill the need for women to take care of themselves all the time, to be strong and confident.”