Durban — Veteran kwaito musician and former TV star Bonginkosi Dlamini, popularly known as Zola 7, is excited about getting back into the swing of things and doing meaningful work in the music industry after a long break.
At the weekend, through his new endorsement partnership with Mobicel, Dlamini performed as a surprise act at A Night with Legends in Joburg, aimed at celebrating legends.
He shared the stage with kwaito legends including Arthur, Kabelo, Oskido, Thebe and Mdu.
Earlier this year, Dlamini made it back into the spotlight after fans said he was unwell.
However, the musician assured his long-time and new fans that the “worst was over” and stated that he was available for bookings, sharing details on his Instagram account.
Speaking to the Daily News on Tuesday, Dlamini said he had health challenges but was overcoming them; therefore, he was now able to again focus on his music career.
“My struggle with epilepsy is something I have been open about. I am managing the chronic illness well. I am glad to say that I am over the worst,” said Dlamini.
He said he was overwhelmed by the love and support he was receiving from the industry and everyone who played a role in helping him make positive changes, including the public.
Dlamini further stated that he was confident that kwaito music continued to appeal to its target market although new genres were being introduced.
“Music industry colleagues and the public have shown me love and support that inspires me to continue my journey with confidence. I am recording new music and will make announcements in due course.”
Dlamini said he was most excited about his partnership with Mobicel as an ambassador, which had reignited his passion to give back to the community.
As part of the endorsement deal, Dlamini is expected to feature in the Mobicel product experience campaigns and activations in the coming months.
“Mobicel is very much into the things I believe in, working with the poorest communities to bring change, so when they approached me about this partnership it only made sense to join in and jump at the opportunity. Both Mobicel and I are proudly South African home-grown brands that have always challenged the societal status quo to better lives when given the chance,” said Dlamini.
Mobicel marketing director, Yusuf Akojee, said Mobicel was excited to partner with one of the South African icons whose legacy has been to assist people to make positive changes in their communities and their personal lives.
“Mobicel believes that this is the perfect partnership as both Zola and Mobicel share a passion for empowering South Africans and encouraging people to strive to be more. This partnership will further strengthen Mobicel’s commitment to be more, as it continues to lead the transformation of the South African tech industry by bridging the digital divide through an ever-growing product range.”
Daily News