Gugu’s path from Jazz begins Amapiano adventure
In 2020, Gugu recorded three Amapiano songs that gained her popularity, including Fohloza and Ngyazthandela, where she was featured by Afrotoniq.
Gugulethu Ngubane or simple known by her stage name Gugu is an Amapiano and Afro-Pop vocalist born in Orlando East before she moved to Qwaqwa, Free State at the age of 12.
After Matric, Gugu pursued her further studies and in 2005, had the opportunity to receive vocal training and study music at the University of Concordia in Canada, a project sponsored by Yamaha.
She then began working with various jazz artists in South Africa and has maintained consistency in her career ever since.
Gugu has performed on some of Africa’s biggest stages and festivals, including The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Cherry Festival, Macufe Festival, Maluti Annual Festival and the 46664 Mandela Concert held at the UK Convention Centre.
She has shared stages with prominent artists such as Will Smith, Vusi Mahlasela, Hugh Masekela, HHP, Tshepo Tshola, Cassper Nyovest, Zonke, Unathi, Kabza de Small, Woza Africa, Bucie, BOP, and Black Coffee among many others.
In 2020, Gugu recorded three Amapiano songs that gained her popularity, including Fohloza and Ngyazthandela, where she was featured by Afrotoniq.
Ngyazthandela was also nominated for Best Newcomer of the Year at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) 28.
To reflect on why she ventured into Amapiano coming from Jazz Gugu said, “I embarked on a journey of Amapiano because I saw the opportunity and used it. I was inspired by the kasi sound and its elements, how people responded to the new sound that represents our diversity and different cultures as South Africans.”
She later collaborated with Boohle and Josiah De Disciple on the song Tata, and from there, her success continued to grow.
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