Weekend Turn Up meets up with Sbahle SA – the powered by adidas socials sensation

31.12.2021

You know how some voices just wrap their arms around you and you don’t want them to ever let you go? How some verses tell a story that could be yours? Come with us and meet Sbahle SA (real name Sbahle Cele) and you’ll get plenty of both.

The first artist to be signed last year (2020) by Blaq Diamond’s label, Umuthi Records, the Umlazi-born singer has been singing since she was in primary school.

And experience tells. She spent years performing covers of other singer’s songs – impressively, she’s so versatile she can sing any kind of song from any music genre – crafting her voice and talent every step along the way.

Of all the genres, she prefers afro-pop saying that “it’s the sound that just suits me”. (Although her cover of Lady Gaga’s Million Reasons – Google it – is a million confirmations that any sound suits her.)

She gained a following on the socials – which is where she was talent spotted and signed by Blaq Diamond – dropping a single of her own (Emlanjeni) which earned her much love. This was followed by Ngiyazifel. Even now, a year later, she’s still somewhat surprised (but thrilled and grateful) by people’s reaction to her music, propelling her to number one on iTunes.

Her music is inspired by love and she herself is an inspiration. Her message to fans or people who want to follow in her footsteps? “Be yourself, work on your craft, and just believe in yourself.” Want more? Check out our exclusive interview.