Shibu wins SATMA for best Afro-soul artist
Limpopo singer Shibu Molomo wins Best Afro-Soul Artist at the South African Traditional Music Awards, celebrating her music journey.
POLOKWANE – Afro-soul singer Shibu Molomo has been awarded the prestigious title of best afro-soul artist or group at the South African Traditional Music Awards (Satma).
Growing up in a disadvantaged village in Limpopo, she said despite many challenges her passion for music from a young age never wavered.
Limpopo, known for its rich Zion gospel music heritage, became an early influence on her musical style.
As an adult, Molomo started pursuing music more seriously, joining the Mookghopong Community Gospel Choir. Her big break came when she won a singing competition organised by the Department for Arts and Culture, named ‘I Can Sing’.
This victory led to her mentorship by renowned tutor Miss Precious Makgabe Manaka of the Fuba School of Drama and Visual Arts.
In 2014, Molomo joined the popular Limpopo gospel group Worship House, recording with them on their Worship House Project 12. Her success with the group propelled her to start recording covers, which she shared on social media.
One of these covers, a song by Winnie Mashaba, caught the attention of the artist herself, who then supported Molomo’s journey as an independent artist.
Molomo’s career continued to grow, leading her to host her own solo concerts and record her debut Electro Play EP, Modimo Ke Sethakga.
Reflecting on her Satma nomination, she described it as a miracle. “I never expected to win,” she said. “When I sent my entry forms, I was just trying my luck and had even forgotten about it. But here we are today, and I’m so grateful to have won.”
She acknowledged the support of her team, especially her mentor, Matome Rapetsoa, whose encouragement has been invaluable throughout her journey.
Molomo also acknowledged the fierce competition she faced, particularly from talented artists like Ndlunkulu, whose music has garnered millions of views and streams.
