In 2022, Mashudu Mosoeu’s life changed overnight when she was catapulted from Soweto into the spotlight with the amapiano hit Mina Nawe. Featuring Soa Mattrix, Happy Jazzman, and Emotionz DJ, the song garnered over 50 million streams in weeks, turning the then-unknown singer into a household name.
But while her rise seemed glamorous, the 28-year-old admits the instant fame took a toll on her mental health. Speaking to Sowetan Live, Mashudu reflected on the challenges of her rapid ascent. “Adjusting to the instant fame wasn’t easy. There were times I felt like I lost myself in the chaos. The constant messages, comments, and requests were exhausting. I had to learn to set boundaries and prioritise my mental health,” she said.
Two years later, Mashudu is proving she’s no one-hit wonder. On Friday, she’ll release her debut EP, Imvumi, led by the single Ngempela. Reflecting on her journey, she shared: “As time passed, I’ve grown more comfortable. I’ve come to appreciate the platform I have and the opportunity to inspire others through my music.”
Since her breakout, Mashudu has become one of amapiano’s most sought-after vocalists, collaborating with industry giants like Kabza de Small, DJ Maphorisa, Nkosazana Daughter, Musa Keys, Master KG, and Heavy K. Her hits Qhude, Kuvaliwe, and Umoya have solidified her place in the genre.
Still, staying at the top comes with its pressures. “The pressure to stay at the top is real because the music industry is constantly evolving, and the spotlight shines bright on the next big thing,” she told Sowetan Live. “I always have this in mind—relevance isn’t solely defined by commercial success or chart-topping hits. I measure my relevance by impacting lives and staying true to my artistic vision.”
Mashudu’s journey began long before her amapiano fame. She honed her skills in her primary school choir, where she learned opera at the age of eight, and later traveled as a theatre singer, performing in America and Scotland. Through fame and personal challenges, her belief in self-love has kept her grounded.
“People’s attention span is short, and you need to make sure they remember you. However, they have preconceived notions about how amapiano artists should look and weigh, and I’ve struggled to cope,” she said. “But ultimately, it comes down to self-love and confidence in who I am. My passion for music, love from fans, and personal growth fuel me. Knowing my art inspires others keeps me going. All these elements drive me to continue sharing my gift and pushing boundaries.”
