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The Mara Louw you did not know

Picture credit: Gallo Images / Foto24 / Lerato Maduna
Picture credit: Gallo Images / Foto24 / Lerato Maduna

In her autobiography, actress and music diva Mara Louw opens up about her life journey.

It's Me, Mara reveals her adventure as a singer, as well as successes and failures in her journey.

She highlights episodes of abuse, loss, struggle and scandals, including public humiliation.

The book traces the story of a young girl from Mzimhlophe, Soweto, who finds her voice as a gifted child star. She goes on to become a celebrated theatre performer, award-winning solo artist and entertainer extraordinaire.

Louw reveals a childhood nickname of Madipere, which in Sotho can also mean "wild horse", which referred to her nonconformist nature.

The book is published through BlackBird Books, and will be launched at the end of February.

Currently appearing in The Queen on Mzansi Magic, Louw said people would get to know her better. "I am excited about this book but I am looking forward to the official launch. I am excited because people will read true facts of my life."

In an extract her publisher put on Twitter, Louw revealed how she had to fight for decent pay.

"There were times, however, especially in 1980s apartheid South Africa, when I felt that artists in this industry were not appreciated.

"I just wanted to be paid decently, but I would hear from certain quarters that I was too expensive.

"But when you've spent so many years in the industry, after paying your dues, should you not demand to be remunerated accordingly?"

There's a story of how she defied all obstacles which led to her being a recipient of two lifetime achievement awards for her craft.

A noticeable thing in the book is Louw's name spelt Marah . "There is a story behind that. My original name is Marah and it changed in 1973 to Mara.

"But it is explained in full in the book."

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