Multi-talented Kwaito star Thembi Seete recently joined  Mzansi Magic’s new reality show, Clash of the Choirs SA. As Choir Master for the Free State, Thembi made her way to Bloemfontein last weekend to scout out fresh talent! We caught up with Thembi to chat about her new (and rather surprising!) role…

The media has dubbed you’re new role as Choir Master as quite an interesting and unexpected move, especially considering the fact that you come from a Kwaito-background. Why did you decide to accept this new role?

I’d like to think that I don’t only come from a Kwaito background, I come from the Boom-Shaka background which was very versatile. We were not classified as a pop, Kwaito or hip hop, we were classified as a musical group.  I’m always looking for things to get myself involved with as far as entertainment is concerned. I saw being part of Clash of the Choirs as a great opportunity to expand my versatility as an entertainer. That’s mainly why I chose to accept this role.

You recently headed to Bloemfontein for the Free State auditions. In general, what were you looking for in a contestant?

I’m looking for people who aren’t afraid to push the envelope. They need to be flexible in singing whatever song I may toss their way.

What would you say are the differences and similarities between being a Jika Majika pesenter and a Choir Master?

(Laughs) There’s a huge difference! With Jika Majika I was more of a facilitator – we already had guest presenters and judges who’d come and decide if our contestants had that raw talent they were looking for.

As a Choir Master I’m looking for talent, I’m looking for something unique.  It’s a very huge and difficult competition and I know a lot of people will wonder what Thembi is going to be capable of doing…

Which show would you say you enjoy most?

(Laughs) Aw no guys… That’s such an unfair question!  I always make sure that I have fun and I carry out my responsibilities as professionally as possible no matter what I am doing.  I’m the type of person who gets bored easily so I make sure I enjoy myself when doing the work I’m required to do. That’s why I love doing different things.  I love and respect what Jika Majika did for me. Clash of the Choirs has been an eye-opening experience that’s showed me that I’m able to push myself to do better and handle more responsibilities when it comes to doing a show.

Last round of Auditions:

North West: Saturday, 15 December & Sunday, 16 December – Orion Hotel, Donkerhoek Road, Rustenburg

Cape Town: Friday, 21 December & Saturday, 22 December – Roodebloem Studios, 43 Roodebloem Road, Woodstock, Cape Town

By Zee Dladla