Jazz in the mountains of Maphumulo

Deep in the mountains of the KwaWoza area in Maphumulo, between KwaDukuza and Kranskop, there is a humble but very talented gospel jazz artist.

Themba Msomi is well known in the Ilembe region, occasionally performing at government events. His body language, facial expressions and his moves make him stand out from other artists on stage.

When Msomi tells you about his journey of art and music, which started 30 years ago, the passion and love for what he is doing is written on his face.

He released his first album in 1997 titled Zulu Cowboy. The song Abafana (boys) was popular, playing on radio stations across KZN.

“Unfortunately things did not go well between me and my recording company, so I could not release a second album,” said Msomi.

Msomi said the recording companies that he had approached, wanted him to choose between gospel or jazz. But he was not prepared to do that.

“I sing gospel jazz and that is why I am not getting a recording deal. They say gospel jazz will not work,” said Msomi.

However he believes that gospel jazz is what makes him different from other artists and that people enjoy his music.

Besides being a musician Msomi has been seen in various films, including The Deejay Man, where he acted as a detective. Other films he has appeared in are: Diepkloof, Dutsmine, Ifa lakwaMhethwa and Emzini Wezinsizwa.

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