As a music fan, I love to see it when musicians share their knowledge and wisdom with others. However, I have to say, it's even more endearing when they physically take out some of their own time to invest in other people's future.
Thandiswa Mazwai showed us that she has a good heart after announcing that she'll be featuring on an unknown artist's song. She explained on Twitter recently: I am giving away a free feature this month.lets hope and unsigned unknown but great artist can benefit from that.onelove. #kingtha4thebabies."
King Tha is not the only musician giving back. It has been revealed that Kelly Khumalo will be teaming up with the South African Artists Development Association (SAADA).
According to Drum, the singer has made herself available to up and coming artists through the association. She told the magazine that SAADA is the brainchild of kwaito legend Arthur Mafokate, and added that it is the best way she can help to give back.
She explained: "SAADA is a great initiative, giving established artists a platform to advice and mentor up and coming acts. I am available to do that. I am willing to help people coming into the industry with advice and my expertise where I can."
She added: "To all up and coming artists and to Arthur I am saying, ‘I am here’. I am just a phone call away."
The initiative, which will help 1000 artists around the country, is also aimed at teaching people about the arts business. The organisation, which is led by Arthur, will be supported by established artists and producers like Oskido, Casper Nyovest, Dr Malinga, AKA and Chomee.
At a time when South African music is in a very strong and healthy position (Seriously, just look at these SAMA nominees...) it's still great to see Mzansi's top musicians pave the way for talented unknown artists. This will only strengthen the industry for the future.
Now, where's my microphone; it's time to record that mixtape I've been putting off!