STROKE survivor becomes traditional healer after near-death experience transforms her life.
Samas and Basadi In Music Awards nominee Tshenolo Sebogodi rises from the ashes of a devastating stroke that nearly ended her career.
The singer-songwriter from Montshiwa, Mahikeng in the North-West had to relearn basic skills that most adults take for granted.
"I suffered a stroke in April 2023. Doctors said high blood pressure was the cause," she said.
"I couldn't speak, read or write. But it turned out my condition had to do with a calling from my ancestors.
"I've since gone through the initiation. I'm a qualified traditional healer - sangoma Gogo Malatsi," she said.
Her latest album titled Tsogo - The Rebirth is Tshenolo's second album.
She said the album is about appreciation of her second chance in life.
Among the standout tracks of Tsogo - The Rebirth is the Freedom Song.
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The groovy Afro-pop sound features an upbeat and celebratory tune that calls for freeing the limbs to dance. The song projects a flashback to just over 30 years ago.
It reminisces about the euphoria and hopes for a better life that was supposed to be brought about by the first democratic elections in South Africa.
The familiar sound style of Freedom Song triggers memories of the popular Afro-pop group Malaika.
Exposed to classical music early, Tshenolo fell in love with jazz and started performing at the age of 10. In 2007, she turned professional and became a lead vocalist for the band Clear Cut.
"The band performed jazz standards, music that helped fine-tune my vocal abilities. I took a four-year break to study for an LLB. My parents, who are academics, insisted that I further my studies at tertiary level.
"I could study anything except music. It had something to do with having something to fall back on. Upon completing my studies, I reunited with Mathibe Pilane, my manager, producer and business partner," said Tshenolo.
The former arts student at Mmabana Arts Centre in Mahikeng said the reunion with Mathibe resulted in the 2019 debut album, Toro Ka Mmino.
The album was nominated for the Best Adult African Contemporary Album Category in SAMA 26. The collection presents captivating songs.
These include the entrancing Modisa, the traditional folk-derived tune Mina, and the soothing lullaby-ish ballad Bokamoso.
Tshenolo will perform on 13 September at the Jam Garden Stage of the third annual JAM'nJAZZ LOVElyment Pilgrimage at Meander Estate in Bronkhorstspruit.
She'll be sharing the stage with top acts. These include 2013 Idols winner Musa Sukwene, Jaziel Brothers, Kgafela oa Magogodi, and DJs from Radio 2000 - Mphulo and Reggie Phillander.
