Mopani artist juggles music career and multiple hustles

LIMPOPO – From the small, close-knit community of Nkurhi Sifasonke village emerges a man who refuses to be defined by a single talent or career path, a man who defies all odds to ensure there is always food on the table.

Winners Ngobeni (33), better known by his stage name Swale Ntangeni Wa Jizzo, is living proof that ambition, versatility, and relentless hard work can carve out a space for success in even the toughest of circumstances.

Ngobeni’s journey into music began back in 2007, when he first tried his hand at hip hop. At the time, he was inspired by the global rise of the genre and saw it as a powerful way to tell stories, connect with young people, and express his creativity.

Unlike any other unemployed youth in his village, Ngobeni dedicated years of his youth to perfecting his craft, yet as his career progressed, and he realised hip hop was not going as planned, he gradually moved in a new musical direction.

He found himself drawn to Xitsonga music, which is well-known in the music industry as Xigaza music, a lively and culturally rooted genre that allowed him to connect more deeply with his heritage and the community around him.

The transition marked a new chapter in his career. In 2023, Ngobeni made his official debut in the Xigaza scene with the single titled Swa Mnandzi-nandzi, a track that quickly earned him recognition among local music lovers.

Riding on that momentum, he released an EP titled Cooler Box, showcasing his ability to blend catchy beats with relatable storytelling music. Now, he is hard at work on his latest single, Khethile-Khethile, which he hopes will further cement his place in the industry once it is released in the coming weeks.

However, Ngobeni’s story goes far beyond the studio and the stage. Like many South African artists, he understands that passion alone cannot always pay the bills. When he’s not recording music, he works shifts at a local pizza restaurant, ensuring he maintains a steady source of income.

But even that is just one of the many hats he wears. On weekends, Ngobeni is a familiar face at local football tournaments, lending his voice and charisma as a commentator. He’s also a sought-after MC at weddings, community events, and celebrations.

Whether he is captivating a crowd with a microphone in hand or delivering play-by-play commentary from the sidelines, he excels at bringing energy and entertainment to every setting. For Ngobeni, this multi-faceted approach to life isn’t just about survival; it is a philosophy.

“I want people to understand that life is about hustles and making the most of every opportunity,” he said, adding that it was not safe to rely on just one job and expect it to be sustainable forever.

“If you have skills, no matter how small they may seem, put them to use and find ways to earn extra income on the side,” he continued, adding that, for him, surviving is about being resourceful and creating multiple streams of income to avoid being left vulnerable when challenges arise.

As he continues to push his music career forward while keeping multiple income streams alive, Ngobeni is calling on event organisers to book him for their occasions to act, whether as an entertainer, MC, or sports commentator. For him, every opportunity is a stage, and every stage is a chance to inspire others to embrace the hustle.

Those interested in reaching Ngobeni can contact him on 063 043 2893.