There’s always something special about finding ways to create groundbreaking art while honoring timeless traditions in the process. The South African rapper Sho Madjozi does just that, as she seamlessly weaves bubbly new pop sounds with her Tsonga heritage.
Maya Christinah Xichavo Wegerif, who goes by the stage name Sho Madjozi, was born to a mother of African descent and a father of European descent. At a young age, her parents divorced. She was mainly raised by her mother, and her father would take her traveling across the continent. Her split identity allowed her to perceive her world in different ways. She started off her career as a poet and an actress, before making the switch to the music scene.
Sho Madjozi has been redefining the connection between pop and traditional culture since she entered the music scene in 2017, when she released her single “Dumi HiPhone.” Since then, she’s released several singles and two albums, Limpopo Champions League and What A Life. Sho Madjozi melds her contemporary sound with traditional presentation. Her lyrics are a mix of Tsonga, Swahili, and English. Her hit single, “John Cena,” became viral and received quite a lot of attention, as the WWE wrestler himself shared the song on his Instagram. Sho Madjozi even got to meet the wrestler during her appearance on the Kelly Clarkson show.
Sho Madjozi is a fashion icon on and off-stage, as she is known for her elaborate hairstyles inspired by Fulani and Tuareg women. She also often wears a tinguvu skirt and performs the indigenous xibelani dance. She’s even working to launch her own clothing branch with Edgars, which will feature traditional styles of clothing with bright and modern fabric.
Sho Madjozi is clearly unapologetic and proud of her Tsonga heritage, and it shows in her music and her style. She has the amazing ability to create new and inspiring art, while simultaneously paying homage to her roots. Sho Madjozi’s unquestionable love for her culture helps empower others to be proud of their roots as well.