SINGER Vela Khoza, aka Sgwebo Sentambo, is definitely the future of maskandi music.

Sgwebo, as he prefers to be known, has released his second album, Inkunzi Ekhonyala. On his latest album the young singer wants to know who is the reigning champion in the genre.

Posing such a question in a genre like maskandi, which is full of politics and petty issues, shows bravery from this Empangeni-born singer. He says he had to ask the controversial question because everyone claims to be king.

His passion for and understanding of traditional music is truly impressive. Inkunzi Ekhonyala boasts exciting maskandi styles such as ushameni and isichunu.

Like all young musicians who struggle to get a recording deal before they can taste success, Sgwebo is very vocal about such issues. There is also a gospel track that is influenced by Shembe beat.

"In a track called isilima, I voice my anger at people who treat you like an idiot, especially if you are a quiet person," the shy musician says.

Khoza, who comes from a musical family, started singing at a young age.

He says growing up listening to his brother Ihashe Elimhlophe and Sipho Khoza, known as Thwalufu Namankentshana, influenced his music.

Though his uncle wanted to see him educated, Sgwebo abandoned school for music.

"My uncle Sipho was very strict. But, I don't regret dropping out of school for music," he says.

Sgwebo started out as a backing vocalist and dancer for groups such as Ubuhle Buyeza, Oosenzeni, Savela Notshatha, Ushodo and Intombi Zika Shodo.

In 2003 he came to Johannesburg and the following year he joined his uncle, Sipho, one of the exponents of maskandi.