Rowlene On 11:11, The Music-Making Process And Her Message To Female Musicians

Rowlene / 23 / Singer & Songwriter

How did you break into the music industry?

I broke into the industry about four years ago when I did a feature with Nasty C’s debut album ‘Bad Hair’, titled Phases. Everything since then has been smooth, musically. It has been organic working with people that align with my purpose since 2016/2017, it’s been a dope experience.

You’ve gained so many fans, how do you manage to stay consistent?

They are loyal, it’s so crazy. I check in on them and always make sure I’m mindful of what I post. I try and be a good example and stay positive. I also try and make them see how important affirmations and manifestations are, that’s how I came up with the “11:11” title.

Making music is a process, how do you find never-ending inspiration?

My friends are very inspirational and dope. Whenever I feel like I am in a space where I can’t create music or do something that makes me feel good, I spend time with them and I’m inspired because they are always creating amazing things.

What’s your playlist looking like at the moment?

My playlist looks pretty hectic right now, lol. I love that my Spotify curates playlists for me by the way. I listen to Jazz, Blues and 80s music. Artists such as Jhene Aiko, Billie Eilish, Stevie Wonder and Luther Vandross are some of my favourites, it’s also a combination of how I grew up as well.

Your album 11:11 dropped this month, what can fans look forward to?

It’s a great body of work, I’ve put a lot of time and effort on it, I worked super hard on this album.

Do you have any special career moments?

Definitely the traveling and getting to meet creatives…oh and the free stuff, I love the free stuff.

What’s your wish for South African female musicians?

I wish they were more determined and understand that they don’t need validation from this male-dominated industry to be dope. I wish they’d do a lot more things for themselves, be proactive and stop expecting things.

You’ve also dropped singles that have been making waves, do you have a favourite one so far?

Right now it’s ‘Sunday Morning’, but it changes with time.

Any exciting news you’d love to share with your fans?

I’ll be doing my first album launch, I’ll promote it on my social media platforms. A lot of things are coming up to launch the album, all details will be on my social media.

Follow Rowlene!

Instagram: @rowlene_sa

Twitter: @Rowlene_SA

Facebook: @RowleneSA

-Bridgette Makhela

Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena On The Come Up, Making Music And What The Industry Lacks

Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena / 27 / Recording Artist

It’s Been A Minute: You’ve been in the industry for a a while, how has the journey been?

It’s really been exciting. Lots of highs and lows, plenty of lessons learnt and priceless memories to last a lifetime.

Something New: ‘I’m A Star’ just dropped recently, what’s the message there?

I think the title says it all, just letting people know I’m a star!

A First: What are you still jamming from your debut album ‘Victory’?

‘Vatel’ will forever be on my playlist, but ‘Victory Anthem’ featuring Tribal has been really great during these crazy times.

A Woman Of Many Talents: What do you enjoy more, TV or making music?

Making music.

Coming To You Live!: The one thing you still get nervous about at live performances?

I’m not sure if nervous is the right word but you always want the crowd to engage and enjoy your performance. You always want people to like what you’ve got to offer.

If Only Ya’ll Knew: The dopest thing to happen to you in your career so far?

I could tell you but I’d have to kill you. I’ve worked with some of the biggest stars both locally & internationally so just know I’ve got behind the scenes stories for days, lol.

Preach Sister!: What does the South African entertainment industry lack?

Wow, there’s a lot honestly. Our industry is still young and although we’ve come far, we still have a long way to go. True costing for work being one of them, it’s high time we all got paid our worth. Not only the people on screen, but those behind the scenes too. There’s a big shift that needs to happen.

There Can Only Be One: Fashion or Friends?

Friends. You can always steal their clothes, that way you have both.

The Come Up: What advice would you give to anyone trying to build a lasting brand?

Think about who you want to be in the future and think about who you are now. A perfect blend of both those people authentically shining through will always be relatable no matter what stage you’re at, and give yourself room to grow as a person.

 

Follow Moozlie!

Instagram: @moozlie

Twitter: @nomoozlie

Facebook: @Moozlie

 

-Bridgette Makhela