Inspired by big names in the music industry, such as Zola 7, Big Zulu and Sjava, Bonginkosi Mkhatshwa wishes to make a living through music.

Bonginkosi, stage name Bonny Lee, recently released his EP, All the way from Mpumalanga. He said he is proud of being a citizen of Mpumalanga, and that is why he created songs to showcase his rapping talent while he appreciates his home province.

He is currently in Grade 11 at Vulindlela Senior Secondary School. The 18-year-old said that his childhood influenced his music.

“I grew up in the dusty streets of Mahushu Trust near Hazyview. Without a father figure, my mom managed to raise me while looking for stable employment. My mom, being jobless at certain times, forced us to move around a lot. We now live in Thembisa Village in KaBokweni.”

Bonginkosi said he grew up listening to music with his friends. “We used to write lyrics on school desks pretending to be in a music studio.”

ALSO READ: KwaMhlanga teen to represent SA in pageant Paraguay

In 2015, he became a part of a music group, called Marvellous Kids, which later changed to Faxko Kidz.

“The group was not a success, so I chose to continue as an individual and pursued a career as a musician at the beginning of my teenage years.”

In 2016, Bonginkosi worked on refining his rapping skills and made some music with other local creatives.

ALSO READ: KaBokweni Hip-Hop artist sets the stage to inspire youngsters

“I managed to release my first EP called, Long distance yako Jozi with some local artists. This EP introduced me to a bigger audience and I got the opportunity to perform live on KRadio,” he said.

Bonginkosi said his goals include finishing school, and then pursuing a full-time music career.