Vocal powerhouse Mimi Mtshali’s dedication to the historical genre of jazz illustrates her artistic passion and inspires admiration. Holding an Honours Degree in Jazz Performance from the University of Cape Town, she has worked as a music lecturer at Wits University for many years. The multi-award-winning songstress’ sensational debut album Essence of My Soul saw her scoop multiple awards, including a Metro FM Award for Best Jazz Album. Mimi has also shared the stage with renowned performers such as Judith Sephuma, Lauryn Hill, Rita Marley, and Cat Walker, who she collaborated with on her sophomore album, Your Love. The “Goodbye Loneliness” hit-maker recently performed at Leano, in Braamfontein, together with a five-piece band.
Jazz music has played an important role in South Africa’s history, acting as a medium to spread a message of unity and calling for the end of the oppressive system of Apartheid. In celebration of International Jazz Day, Moziak had the pleasure of chatting to Mimi about her artistry and future aspirations.
You recently performed at Leano Restaurant & Live Music. Would you describe to us how the experience was?
The experience of performing in front of a live audience after two years of the pandemic was just too beautiful. To be able to connect and feed off from the audience is what I had been missing and looked forward to.
You are a comfortable, phenomenal performer and look in touch with your audience when performing on stage. What are your pre-performance rituals, that’s if you have any?
Thank you. I love to meditate, pray, and do some vocal warm-ups before I do any performance.
Your latest single, “Thatha Konke”, is energetic and reminiscent of your hit, “Goodbye Loneliness”. What inspired the single?
The inspiration behind “Thatha Konke” is love; it simply talks about a woman who’s in love. A woman who has reached a stage of happiness and contentment in her life and wants to give her all without holding anything back.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on my third album, which I am aiming to release before the end of this year.
How well would you say your sound has evolved since the release of your debut album, Essence of My Soul?
As a musician who is always working on her sound and harnessing her craft, I’m always working on bettering myself musically. And my sound has always been a musical cocktail of jazz, African, and Latin sounds. So, exploring different palettes vocally has also helped me to grow and expand in my sound.
Your albums, Essence of My Soul and Your Love, are true testaments of your exceptional composition skills. What does your creative process look like?
Thank you so much. I appreciate that as I enjoy writing music, and my creative process is always very simple and organic. It often begins as a small idea, which I then usually workshop on the piano with my producer and just really let the music take its own shape.
Jazz is a genre with many icons and legendary performers. Which jazz musicians do you draw inspiration from to help with the creative process?
I’m such an old soul. I still love the great jazz oldies like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan – that’s where it begins. And also the generation that came after, which is Dianne Reeves and Bobby McFerrin. And right here at home, my favourites are Mam’ Miriam Makeba, Sibongile Khumalo, Busi Mhlongo, Sophie Mgcina, and Mam’ Letta Mbulu. I have so much respect for these greats and the contribution which they have made musically and the way that they have paved the way for us.
Which jazz musicians would you like to work with in the future?
Well, on my latest album, Your Love, I had the opportunity to do a collaboration with the incredible Kirk Whalum, and that was absolutely amazing! And I think I would love the opportunity to work with Jonathan Butler and Lalah Hathaway.
What has been the most memorable moment of your music career thus far?
Winning my Metro FM Award for Best Jazz Album, the Multilingualism and Nation Building Female Artist of the Year, and the Mzantsi Best Female Award.
You have over two decades of experience as a jazz musician in South Africa. What are some of the most important lessons you have learned throughout your journey as an artist?
Wow, I can’t believe how quickly time has gone by. I must be honest: the music industry is not easy. I have learned how important it is to know who you are in this industry and why I’m doing this. I’ve learned talent alone is not enough; you also need to teach yourself about the business side of things as well.
Lastly, what is your advice to young women passionate about jazz and who have aspirations of getting into the music industry?
I would advise them to work hard, be disciplined, and stay focused. Have a good attitude and be willing to learn from others and from every experience.
Jazz music is a continuously burgeoning genre that requires exceptional storytelling and powerful vocals, and Mimi Mtshali is a master of both. Her music is available on all major online music streaming platforms, and her CDs are available in stores. You may want to hear this talent for yourself.
