Patience Bamnbalele

Patience Bamnbalele

Kwaito singer Cia is the new boy on the block and is ready and willing to colonise the kwaito and house scene with his sound.

With his debut album Charmza in the Area, Cia, whose real name is Siya Ntamo, is definitely breathing new meaning into kwaito music.

Born 26 years ago in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, Cia is a talented musician. Unlike many musicians, the young singer is not afraid to experi- ment with sounds.

He says when he went into the studio he wanted to produce fresh music that would delight music lovers.

"My music is kwaito but it is vibey and draws inspiration from R&B. There is a lot of soul in my music. I know it is something new that people might not follow, but music is all about gambling. I would like to think that I am a trendsetter."

Boasting uplifting themes, Cia's album has potential. Like all kwaito songs, his lyrics are about struggles. His sound is so unique he could set a trend for upcoming kwaito artists.

Cia is one of the artists who seem to have found inspiration from their difficult childhood. Growing up surrounded by poverty made him dream big.

"I grew up in a poor environment but I never gave up. I realised that a dream alone would not help me. I had to work hard to achieve what I have today."

Cia, who grew up in a neighbourhood where gangsterism is a career to many, escaped that life. His career started at a young age performing with friends.

The turning point was when he got a chance to back his homeboy, Sliq Angel.

He has not looked back since. Though he struggled to get his career off the ground, he never gave up.

In his album he has worked with Mgarimbe, Sliq Angel, Athinkosi Dlephu and Neo Khuma.