Multiple platinum-selling musician Zahara has proven with her new album Mgodi that she still got what it takes.
In spite of the negative reports in the past months, thousands of her loyal fans have showed her love by buying Mgodi. The album reportedly went gold in just six hours. In 24 hours, it had reached platinum status, selling more than 30000 copies.
Born Bulelwa Mkutukana in Eastern Cape, Zahara has broken her own record with her latest sales. Her debut album Loliwe achieved gold in 13 hours and platinum in 17 days. Her second offering, Phendula, achieved platinum in just one day, while Country Girl went double platinum on the day of its release.
"I am humbled by the success of this album. Music lovers have proven that they still love my music and I am grateful. I did not even release a single to test the waters, people just heard it on radio and bought it because they trust my capabilities."
Zahara says she has managed to maintain her popularity in the market because she is not competing with anyone but herself. The guitarist and music composer argues that people love her music because she narrates real and true life stories through it.
"My music is a story that continues, that is why people love it. I tell a true story and others find their stories within mine.
"The story started with Loliwe and it continues even now. I came to this industry to educate, inspire and heal people through music. I don't try to be a celebrity," she says.
On Mgodi, Zahara weaves a story of the liberation Struggle through love, pain, faith and triumph.
Mgodi is released through her new recording company, Warner Music South African.
Most songs are written and composed by her, while Mojalefa Thebe produced them.
"The song Mgodi is sure to be a hit in South Africa with its universal theme of one hiding from hurt, before escaping the burdens through friendship and faith."
She believes what is so unique about Mgodi was featuring US jazz saxophonist Kirk Whalum on two songs - Umfazi and Ina Mvula.
"I am honoured that Whalum offered to work with me free of charge. I have also promised to write two songs for him that will be part of his upcoming album.
"I know where I'm going, and I am really proud of this album. I have graduated, but I'm still a village girl and my plan is to bring hope to every girl who thinks they cannot make it."
Zahara agrees she has been through a lot in the past months. She says reports of her break-up with ex-fiancé Amaza Ntshanga, and how she failed to settle a wine bill at some restaurant hurt her and her family.
"My mother was there [for me], reminding me that music is my calling. I prayed to God to at least lead me in the right direction. I know I make mistakes, I am a human being after all ..." she says.