One of the oldest Tshivenda traditional-music groups to emerge from Vhembe, the Malisakholomo Band, is still raking in accolades, which they attribute to hard work and perseverance.
The group was formed in 2012 by four members: Apostle Takalani David Netshivhodza, Avhasei Luvhengo, Mukhethwa Mahafha, and Ms Sophia Munyai, who was later replaced by Lindiwe Tracy Nthai.
Since its inception, the group has released eight albums and earned two Tshivenda Music Awards (Tshima) nominations. Last year, the band won the award for Best Traditional Song at the Tshimas, competing against some of the best groups, including the legendary Adziambei Band, Vho Julia Nemakhavhami, Mudxinginyo Band, and the evergreen guitarist Solomon Mathase.
Group leader Apostle Takalani David Netshivhodza said passion and love for music had carried them this far. "Music is full of challenges these days, and if you do not have passion, you will not last in the industry. Many artists are after money, and when they do not get it, they give up. We have been through thick and thin on this journey, but we persevered," he said.
Netshivhodza noted that the band had been nominated twice before at the Tshimas, in 2018 and 2021, but never won. "This did not deter us, and we continued to work hard," he said. The 2024 Tshima is the group's first award.
"This is a sign of greater things to come. It is also a testament that patience pays, but it comes at a price, which is passion. We are very excited as a group and can assure our fans that we are highly motivated. They can soon expect something very hot. The award has opened doors for live performances. We just hope the Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival organisers consider us this year, so we can showcase Venda culture to the outside world," he said.
Netshivhodza thanked producer Ishy Malala, who has supported the group since its inception. He also expressed gratitude to The Guitar Man (Shikatara) for assisting with the recording of Volume 7, as well as instrumentalists Ndivhuwo Nekhwalivhe, better known as Jah Man Mudengu, and Uhone Nemadzivhanani, for their support.
The group's latest album, Volume 8: Phungo a Dzilingani, was recently released.