By: Poelano Malema
Malaika’s lead vocalist, Tshedi Mholo, has bid farewell to the group. The singer has been part of the group since 2003.
Mholo took to social media to explain her departure.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my departure from the band,” she wrote in a statement.
“Effective immediately, I would like to inform you that I will not be doing any public performance or whatsoever under the banner of Malaika,” she added.
Mholo says after almost twenty years with the band, she has realised how it has taken a toll on her.
“Being in the band took a toll on me on so many levels and I have reached a stage where I cannot carry the burden any further,” she wrote.
She says being the only female vocalist came with pressure, especially working in a society that is patriarchal.
“In an already patriarchal society and by extension, the entertainment industry, for a long time, I have constantly found myself under the pressure of being the only girl in the band and having to live up t0 certain expectations,” she added.
Tshedi Mholo to pursue solo ventures
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The star says being part of the band also affected her solo career.
“Even after flying solo in 2013, it has been somewhat difficult to cut through the clutter without the shadow of the Malaika cloud following me every step of the way. It has been to my benefit in some instances and my downfall in some,” she wrote.
Tshedi concluded by saying she hopes her bold move to go solo will serve as inspiration to others who also want to pursue their goals.
She announced that she will be pursuing her own ambitions that include a gospel music career, her businesses, and social activism.
“If there is one thing being part of Malaika has taught me over the years it is that life is too short to not chase any dream a person might have. That said, I hope my decision would serve as an inspiration to anyone out there who might not be scared to chase their goals individually and independently,” she wrote.
She wished her former band member, Bongani Nchang, all the best.
See the full statement below.
Image courtesy of Instagram/ @Tshedimholo