Lwandile Mtshali, better known by her stage name Lwah Ndlunkulu, has firmly established herself as the artist to watch in 2024. With two prestigious Artist of the Year awards from the Metro FM Music Awards and the Basadi in Music Awards, along with the Most Streamed Song award at the Basadis, Lwah Ndlunkulu’s rise to stardom is nothing short of remarkable.
Speaking to TRUELOVE Magazine, she shared her thoughts on being honoured as Artist of the Year. Translated from isiZulu, she expressed, “Personally, it makes me very happy that I make people happy and it makes me very happy people believe in me and the way that they even make me the artist of the year. That’s a huge thing because there are many more other talented female artists, many more other talented male artists, and to be chosen to be this person for the country, that makes me happy and it motivates me to work hard.”
Her latest project, Imizwa, which included a deluxe album released on Women’s Day, reflects her commitment to celebrating women and spreading joy. The timing of the release on Women’s Day was deliberate, serving as a tribute to all the hardworking and resilient women who inspire her.
Growing up in the rural streets of Hluhluwe under the care of her grandparents, her upbringing was marked by challenges. Yet, she emerged stronger, turning her trials into triumphs. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “People who know Lwah Ndlunkulu know her story. I came from nothing to where I am today, artist of the year. I just feel like it wasn’t easy but [through God] I was able to fight through it all and become what God had planned for me to be.”
Lwah Ndlunkulu music resonates deeply with her audience because it speaks to real-life experiences. She explains, “I believe that with people, it’s not always a good time in our lives. There are times when we go through hardships and trials and tribulations. So, I believe ukuthi within my music, I want people to relate, and I like singing about real-life things. I want them to find love in my music. I want my music to be a safe space for people when they listen to it, they say, ‘Okay, this is real, this is authentic, and this is what I can listen to on a Monday to Sunday.’ I want people to find love and peace.”
Looking ahead, Lwah Ndlunkulu is ready to celebrate her achievements with her fans at her Day Picnic with Lwah Ndlunkulu event at the Reitvlei Zoo Farm in Alberton, Johannesburg, on 29 September 2024. With performances from stars like CiCi, Makhadzi, and her Nkabi Records labelmates, including Big Zulu, she promises a day filled with music, fun, and celebration.
For Lwah Ndlunkulu , being recognised as the First Lady of Nkabi Nation was a turning point in her career. She recalls, “I think, first of all, being recognised by Nkabi Records and being the First Lady of Nkabi Records made me realise, ‘Oh, this is your time. This is the time to do anything that you’ve ever wanted to do, anything that you’ve ever dreamt to be,’ and I’ve always had that voice of God saying that in anything that you do, just know that we will be here and we will support you throughout your dreams. So, I think being signed by Nkabi Records was the green light for me.”
