A MUSICAL FAIRY

KZN-born singer and songwriter, Simphiwe ‘Simmy’ Ndlangela, 25, first caught the public’s eye when she featured on Sun-El Musician’s hit single, Ntaba Ezikude. She’s now a household name amongst Afro house music lovers

- SISONKE LABASE

Since moving to Joburg to pursue my music career, being home holds a very special place in my heart. I get to be with my entire family because I only have my sister, up here, in Joburg. There were certain things I took for granted about eMsinga, KwaZulu-Natal — like the food. When I try to cook it myself here, it just doesn’t taste the same. This happens, especially, with tripe and uphuthu.

If I wasn’t in the music industry, I’d be in recruitment. I was a recruitment consultant in my past life.

I’ve tried to remain the same person I was before I became a public figure. I love wearing shorts and sneakers or flip flops, just like the girl next door. I think a lot of my fans are taken aback by that [chuckles]. Fame hasn’t really kicked in for me. Yes, people recognise me on the streets and want to take pictures, but I try to be as normal as possible. I don’t think you ever get used to fame because it has different stages and you must constantly adapt.