Mayestra SA makes waves on local music scene

21-Year-old Njabulo Zwane, born and raised in Ermelo, and better known by his performer name Mayestra SA, has been making waves on the local scene after one of his tracks, Madumane, exploded on the radio charts. Njabulo started his school career at Ermelo Laerskool, and graduated at Netherland Park Secondary School.

“Music came to me as a gift from God, and it came at the most emotional time of my life, after I was involved in a car accident in 2013. I was so in love with sports back then, but things changed when I lost the use of my left leg as a result of the accident. It was then when I started writing lyrics. I started saving money for studio sessions, which were expensive for me back then. It used to cost R300, and I recorded my music with the money I saved from my pocket money from school. I stopped eating at school because I had love and passion for music. In 2018, I decided to start my own studio, and helped other local artists to record at a very cheap price, because I knew how hard it was to save money just so you can record. I was already a businessman, because my studio made some money, even thought it wasn't a lot. When it comes to business, my father is my role model and mentor, and has helped me extensively. I started getting supporters from some classmates, and soon from the whole school. Before long, my music spread through Ermelo and the surrounding areas. Fast forward to 2021, as I moved to Johannesburg, and started grabbing the attention from people around Gauteng. I started getting bookings to open stages for one the biggest names in the South African music industry, and it really was a blessing! One of my biggest achievements thus far is getting interviews and air plays after a hit song of mine, Madumane, blasted over the airwaves. I made the track in collaboration with my producer, Thabang Nhlapho, or more well known as Jaded Gluck. He is a very gifted producer and very close friend, and we are working on a powerful album. I can't wait for it to be released! My biggest dream is to put Ermelo’s name on top of the world, and give hope to the hopeless kids in the streets of Ermelo, because I know exactly what it feels like to try your best, and still get rejected. Ultimately, I will use my success to create jobs in Ermelo, and help not just the youth, but also the less fortunate. I hope Ermelo continues to support not just me, but every talent in our town. It's a beautiful thing, and I love you all!”