Durban - Working as a car guard in Durban during the day and a security guard at night, Democratic Republic of Congo musician Mukengerwa “Treso” Riziki, 29, knew only hard work would propel him onto the world stage.
He came to South Africa seven years ago, made Durban his home, but, determined to make music his career, he is far from the streets he patrolled.
Treso, which means treasure in French, performed a song from his debut album VII, in last week’s TV programme SA’s Got Talent as a guest performer, and received a rapturous applause.
He told how he used to work as a car guard, while believing one day his dreams would come true.
“I am happy about the time I spent in Durban. I love the culture and the people, and the time I spent as a car guard taught me about the highs and lows of life.”
Music, he said, ran in his family, and helped him and the community of refugees through the 1994 genocide.
“My hometown was a getaway for refugees during the Rwandan genocide. In the church we used to sing and dance to focus on something other than what was happening around us. I learnt to play the drums and guitar,” he said.
Having survived, but losing his parents, Riziki decided to come to South Africa to pursue his ambition.
“South Africa is seen as the gateway to Africa, and the place to be if you want to be in the entertainment industry. I couldn’t speak English and had to learn. The first few years were difficult but I was determined.”
Now, after a few lucky breaks and hard work, Riziki has performed alongside Eddie Grant, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Freshly Ground, Prime Circle, Just Jinjer, Goldfish, Vusi Mahlasela, Lira, HHP, and Johnny Clegg.
In 2010, he signed a deal with Universal Music Publishing Group, and in 2012 was chosen by Rolling Stone Magazine and Intercontinental Hotel Group as the winner of the Holiday Inn Express songwriting challenge.
This year, he signed a deal with Sony Music/RCA and also an international record label with Ultra Records, which will see his music being played in North and South America, Canada, the UK, Asia and Australia.
Independent on Saturday