Birch Acres vocalist wins an award at talent show
Her win at the East Side Talent Show marks a major step for local vocalist Neleigh, who draws inspiration from personal experiences and African rhythms.
Birch Acres vocalist Nelisa Engole, known professionally as Neleigh, has been crowned Artist of the Year at a talent show held at Capello in Birchleigh North.
The 22-year-old was announced as the winner of the top category at the East Side Talent Show, hosted by Ghetto Heroes and Brazzo Raps.
Neleigh said she was honoured to have made it to the top two, describing the achievement as a reflection of her dedication and hard work.
ALSO READ: Kempton Park rapper Klouty wins Artist of the Year award
“Winning that competition was such an honour. Of all the talent, I made it to the top two,” she said.
“It felt like all the rehearsals, hard work, and moments of self-belief really came together. I gave it everything I had and stayed true to my sound.”
She added that seeing people connect with her music was deeply meaningful.
“The experience motivates me to keep growing, keep challenging myself, and create performances that leave a lasting impression. For me, it’s just the beginning.”
Neleigh believes the artistic talent within her community is exceptional, and being recognised locally affirms that her work is resonating with audiences.
ALSO READ: Jeugland teams secure top national wins in Oppie Tong Af competition
The young singer draws inspiration from her lived experiences – love, loss, and growth – as well as from her community and culture. She cites Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, and Beyoncé among her musical influences and specialises in Afro-piano, Afrobeat, and amapiano.
“There’s something magical about African drums,” she said. “They can put you in a trance and make you feel the music deep in your soul.”
Her upcoming single, Khwela Khwela, is an Afro-pop love song which she says is “fun, relatable, and impossible not to dance to,” capturing the vibrant South African spirit.
Neleigh’s love of music began at the age of seven.
“My friends and I used to host little talent shows, singing and dancing whenever we got together. That’s when my passion for music truly sparked.”
Although she did not grow up in a family of musicians, she fondly recalls her mother playing artists such as Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Puff Johnson, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Brandy, and Luther Vandross on car rides.
Performing at Capello, she said, was an interesting challenge as the crowd leaned more towards hip-hop and trap.
ALSO READ: Hillcrest College wins BauHouse International Debate Championship
“Across the six rounds, I brought a diverse catalogue both in songs and in performance,” she said.
While she does not currently have official performances or collaborations lined up, she is building relationships with talented artists she met during the competition and is excited about future opportunities.
Neleigh said that winning the Artist of the Year award is a stepping stone towards reaching a wider audience, performing on bigger stages, and unlocking new paths in her musical journey.
