Sibusiso Shabangu, also known as ‘GogoMkhulu’, is carving out his space in South Africa’s creative scene through poetry, rhythm and African storytelling.
He released Inkondlo Nesginqi, an EP reflecting his journey, growth and lived experiences, and told the African Reporter that the project took about a year to complete.
GogoMkhulu aims to create work that speaks to the heart of the community and inspires positive change. Created with Tushort Nkosana Moloi and Kabioan Lungile Zwane, the EP features stories of hope, resilience and cultural pride, spotlighting struggle and triumph.
His favourite tracks, Buyani Mathongo and Bayeza Abangoma, focus on staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
“The EP marks a new chapter for me. It shows my artistic growth and maturity. I explored new sounds and deeper themes, and I am proud of what we created,” he says.
He adds the response to the EP has been overwhelming and says he is humbled by the positive feedback. Born and raised in Duduza, GogoMkhulu describes himself as a spiritual cultural artist who blends spoken word with African beats rooted in heritage and healing.
His love for music began early, performing poetry and drama in primary school. He later joined community arts and culture organisations such as Feather, where he explored theatre and television production.
“Growing up in Duduza, surrounded by vibrant cultural influences, shaped my sound and message. I blend traditional storytelling with modern rhythms,” he says.
For GogoMkhulu, music is more than entertainment; it is a tool for connection, healing and social change. He explains that being a spiritual cultural artist means using music and poetry to heal, reconnect with his roots and preserve history.
“It’s about storytelling, preserving our history and uplifting others through words and rhythm,” he says.
He draws inspiration from legends such as Mzwakhe Mbuli and Miriam Makeba, while hip hop, kwaito and reggae also influence his creative style.
Like many independent artists, his journey comes with challenges, the biggest being a lack of community support.
“It hurts when locals don’t support local talent. What keeps me going is the idea of changing minds and giving hope to the youth, showing them that art can be a way out of social struggles,” he says.
Through his music, GogoMkhulu highlights issues such as GBV, crime and teenage pregnancy, while encouraging young people to stay focused and strive for a better future.
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“Music and poetry are ways of healing and connecting with others. I weave messages of change and cultural pride into my work. It’s about unity, respect for our heritage and inspiring people through art,” he says.
One of his proudest moments, he says, is realising the impact of simply being himself and discovering that staying true to his art can inspire others.
The artist is preparing to shoot a music video, with more performances lined up. Some of his music will feature in films as background soundtracks, alongside new collaborations already underway.
GogoMkhulu concludes with a message to young artists from Duduza and similar communities: “Believe in yourself. Stay focused and never give up. Your voice matters and your story deserves to be told.”
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