Much Learned and to Be Achieved as Singer Makhanj Drops Her Debut Album
With the release of her debut album, Transkei, Mthatha-born singer-songwriter Makhanj is turning over a new leaf, marking the start of a new chapter in her journey. Documenting belonging and the celebration of identity, her maiden album is the culmination of years in the making and a bold statement about the importance of staying true to one’s roots in a world that demands that one be different by defying oneself.
The vocalist talked about her feelings concerning music and what the road has taught her about her artistry and her mental strength.
“Honestly speaking, I’m thankful to God because the journey has already taught me so much about myself and the things I want to achieve, even outside of music. Music can be really tricky because you may know what you can do and all that you’ve done, and you may want to do something different with your art, only for you to get to a place where people want something from you that sounds like something you’ve already done before. The journey of music has stretched me beyond everything I could’ve imagined. Because of that, I’ve developed the mind that wants to do hard things and to prove to myself that I can. The more that I do, the better I get.
Makhanj | SUPPLIED
“We all have places we want to reach and want to go despite the obstacles along the way that make you want to go the other direction. In my case, there’s always been that little thing telling me, ‘One more song, one more song’—that thing that keeps me going. Those developments apply to other areas of my life now, and I attribute it to my journey in music,” she said.
Makhanj reflected on self-belief and the significance of not doubting oneself, highlighting that some of the greatest failures existed in realms people didn’t explore for fear of failure and standing in the way of self.
“I think it’s important not to deep things too much. No one’s out to get you, and even if they are, just keep working and releasing stuff. Sometimes you’re out to get yourself because you are in your head too much. Just release the work because it will speak for itself. Don’t stop pushing out the work, and if you feel some type of way about the music, allow yourself to feel the emotions and keep it flowing. It’s easy to get distracted by yourself, and it’s not even other people standing in the way. You start wondering if you’re good enough for what you’re doing and if your song is what you think it is. Then, you become surprised when you find out people love the music. You end up loving the music as well. The most important thing is that you love what you do with the hope that other people will love the music when you put it out. Don’t think too deeply about what might go wrong,” she said.
Makhanj | SUPPLIED
She expressed that the greatest achievement she’s gotten for her artistry was knowing that her music served as a beacon for her listeners who had fallen on dark times.
“I’m an emotional person, so my proudest moments in music come when people reach out to me. The music industry is very taxing to be a part of, especially because of how purpose-driven it is, at least for me anyway. Sometimes you don’t get the rewards in other ways. So when you went through something and made a song about it, only for it to resonate with someone, it makes me feel like I didn’t go through those things for nothing. I’m a person who writes about things I’ve been through and observed, so hearing someone tell me that my song helped them during hard times makes everything worth it for me,” she said.
She shared some of her interests outside of music.
“I’m a person who loves walking and being out in nature. I like reading and writing in general, not just songs. I like praying and going to places where I can get to do some painting and art like that. If not, I’m with my family and friends. I’m something of a yapper as well, and I like doing YouTube-esque stuff—there’s a podcast from me on the way so look out for that,” she said.
Makhanj | SUPPLIED
The crooner aimed high for her dreams, revealing ambitions that weren’t limited to the local landscape.
“Years from today, I see myself living my dreams, touring and owning the stages and festivals I perform in. I want to have a successful podcast that speaks to the entertainment industry and the backend of things, like the stuff we go through. I just want to be a formidable voice in my industry and beyond, not just locally but the world at large. I believe there’s much I can achieve in and outside of music, and I’m excited for all those ambitions because I know I will make them a reality,” she said.