Bonang Matheba has been announced as the host for Mzansi Magic’s new reality show, Clash of the Choirs. ZAlebs caught up with Bonang to find out more about her new role…

Congrats on the new show! Why did you decide to be a part of Clash of the Choirs?

I’m a huge fan of music, all sorts of music, and I’ve always wanted to be part of a project that is FAR from what Bonang is known for. A project that will leave people thinking, “What is she thinking?”

I’ve also always wanted to host a reality type show like Idols or the X Factor. Clash of the Choirs is all of those squeezed into one. Plus, I want to introduce my brand to a new market; I want to appeal to a broader scope of people.

What people don’t know is that Clash of the Choirs is not the typical choral/gospel choir setup – it’s a fusion of people, led by a celebrity musician, singing all sorts of genres: from choral, right through to R&B, pop and maybe even rap. This show has many different layers- just like me!

I’m finally going to get the opportunity to show viewers a different kind of presenting style.  I’m not just a VJ, I’m a dynamic television presenter with the ability to move and host any type of show out there.

We have to ask, can you sing?

Yes, but it’s not a talent I’m going to pursue. Being a musician is hard work…I’ll leave that to the professionals! (Laughs)

Were you part of any choirs growing up?

Yes.  It was a junior choir at Dominican Convent School during my primary school years.

Did you have to audition for this role or where you approached?

I was head hunted for this show. I had a meeting with the MD of Endemol SA so I knew it was serious stuff when they asked me. My heart told me to go for it and my heart never fails me.

Where were you when you found out you’d be hosting the show?

I stepped out of that meeting knowing that I was already the host – I was the only host they wanted. If you MUST know, I was at Mugg and Bean in Lonehill, down the road from the Endemol SA offices! (Laughs)

Will you be keeping us entertained with a dazzling wardrobe on the show?

Naturally! It’s going to be 13 weeks of fashion orgasms… It’s what I’m known for. I never disappoint.

Do you still get nervous when you have to get in front of the camera?

Of course! Nerves are good, they mean you want to do your best and give the best of yourself and that you’re scared to fail.

What can we expect to see from the show?

You’re going to experience me and the seven celebrity choir masters in whole different light – you’re going to see people’s dreams come true. We’re going to create memories and ignite the love that South Africans have in choral music. We’re going to make it sexier and ten times more fun to watch a singing competition. Imagine The Soweto Gospel Choir singing a Zakes Bantwini hit? Mmmm… Exactly! Different and very refreshing! We are going to wow you…

By Lauren Lee