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Nancy G on right track for fame

AFTER launching her career with two hit singles - 'God Gave Me' and 'When I Woke Up This Morning' - the Swaziland-born Afro-rock singer is on track to establishing her singing career.

Born in Mbabane, Nancy G grew up in London and came to South Africa six years ago. She will finally release her debut album in February next year, titled 'The Offering'.

She has performed on stages around the world including Hungary, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Africa and her home, Swaziland.

She recently performed 'God Gave Me' on BBC Africa Radio in London last month.

People know you as...

A funny, expressive, passionate and emotional person. I also talk a lot!

Who are your greatest musical influences, and why?

Michael Jackson because of his dedication to music and the reinvention of his sound from album to album.

"I love Jimi Hendrix, a great guitarist who was not trapped in the box of what was expected from him as a young black man, who went on to become a legend".

I also admire Madonna, for keeping a private life and being brutally honest about herself throughout her music career while being loved by so many!

That's the way to do it.

When did your music career begin?

My music started not as a career but a calling, a path and journey that was so strong that it became necessary for me to develop the sound that would leave my legacy at Muthaland Entertainment and the world.

Why the guitar?

The guitar is like a knight's sword, it is my best friend, the one companion that knows me better than anyone else does.

Why do you describe yourself as an 'African Gypsy rocker'?

Well, I am an African and eternally grateful for being a creation of this continent.

I travelled while growing up and learnt to embrace different cultures openly.

Any secret talents?

I love drawing and painting. I also have a passion for cooking.

When was your first experience with a microphone?

I was nine years old and I used to play with my father's recorder. I would record voices and try to harmonise. I must say when I played the cassettes back, I thought I was a creative genius!

My uncle used to call me a poor man's Dolly Parton! But they always encouraged me to keep singing.

What makes your blood boil?

Racism, prejudice, and manipulation.

Spiritual poverty also makes my blood boil, especially when people think they can do whatever they like because of how much money they have and they forget their nature.

Honestly, I have learnt that to have peace of mind I shouldn't let my blood boil.

How many South African languages can you speak?

I can speak only two Nguni languages - isiZulu and siSwati - as well as English.

THIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED IN THE PRINTED NEWSPAPER ON 13 NOVEMBER 2012

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