From the heart of Dzwerani village in Vuwani comes a voice filled with rhythm, resilience and raw emotion. Lerato Wendy Sathekge, better known as Wendy Lee, is fast becoming a name to watch on the vibrant Lekompo music scene.
For Wendy Lee, music was never just a dream – it was destiny. "I've always known since I was four years old that I wanted to make music," she reflects. Yet it wasn't until 2025, after enduring a painful heartbreak, that she fully stepped into her calling. "I couldn't find healing through anything else but music. Writing my own song and singing about my true heartbreak helped me heal. I decided to continue, so I can also help others who cannot find words to express themselves."
Her inspirations span across eras and continents: the legendary Brenda Fassie, the global icon Michael Jackson and the electrifying Makhadzi. Through her artistry, she hopes to share a timeless message: "Love one another, live together in harmony, and support each other throughout our journeys in life."
Her latest single, Swi herile, holds a special place in her heart. "It reminds me of how I finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel when I never thought I would. It also reminds me of how God is always with me, protecting and guiding me through every step."
One of her proudest career milestones so far has been working with none other than the King of Venrap, Mizo Phyll, on the soon-to-be-released track Moepathutse. "I grew up listening to his music. I could only wish, hope and pray to work with him one day. It finally happened, and I am so grateful. I learnt so much from him and I look forward to working with him again."
The road has not been without challenges. Wendy Lee struggled to find a studio and a producer who truly understood her style. That changed when she joined Billion Bucks Multimedia and Publishing Company, gaining access to unlimited studio time in Thohoyandou. She now works closely with producer XBeats, whom she describes as "the kind of producer I've been praying for … his production skills are mind-blowing."