Music is more than entertainment for many artists, it is a way of telling stories, expressing emotions and connecting with people. On Sakhisizwe, we sat down with soulful singer and songwriter Enkosi Camagu, an artist from East London who is signed to Lekasi Records and continues to develop his craft through arts development at Acme Arts Works.
Reflecting on his musical journey, Camagu spoke about how far he has come and the people who have supported him along the way. For him, the journey has not always been easy, but the challenges have helped him grow both as an artist and as a person.“Through my craft, I serve. Through the lyrics that I’ve entailed, I served.”
Camagu explained that his faith, dreams and experiences continue to inspire his songwriting. He shared how he takes the different experiences and obstacles in his life and turns them into music and stories.His approach to creativity is also influenced by his mother, who taught him the importance of capturing ideas as they come before shaping them into something meaningful. For Enkosi, this process reflects the life of a creative taking experiences, people and emotions and transforming them into art.
Joining him was Khanyisile, the second vocalist and manager of the Research Band, who spoke about the importance of collaboration. According to Khanyisile, music brought the group together because of their shared passion and desire to create.“Music is a very communal sport it requires you to collaborate a lot.”The pair also highlighted the importance of humility when working with other creatives. They acknowledged that disagreements and criticism are part of any creative relationship, but being willing to listen, accept correction and put one’s ego aside can help a team grow.For the Research Band, three values are particularly important: transparency, communication and integrity. Khanyisile believes that these qualities help creatives understand one another and work towards a common goal.“The only way to grow is through correction, not perfection.”
The interview also explored the role of music as a form of self-expression.Enkosi described performing as opening a book about who he is, with every page representing different parts of his identity from poetry and rap to singing and melodies.The artists also gave listeners a taste of their work through a live performance in the studio, bringing the conversation about creativity to life.
Looking ahead, Enkosi revealed that he and his team are working towards a new project, although they are still deciding whether it will be released as an EP or an album. He emphasised that the project is not the work of one person, but a collective effort involving band members, producers, his manager and other creatives.The conversation also touched on an important issue facing many emerging artists, understanding the business side of the music industry. Khanyisile addressed that artists do not necessarily need to master music theory, but they should understand the music business, including contracts, negotiations, administration and how to navigate professional spaces.“Knowledge is power.”
For young and upcoming artists, the message from the conversation was clear talent is important, but growth also requires learning, collaboration, humility and understanding the industry.As Enkosi Camagu prepares for the next chapter of his musical journey, his message to listeners is captured in one word Khanyisa, meaning be the light wherever you are.
In an industry where artists can easily become discouraged by challenges and uncertainty, Enkosi’s journey is a reminder that creativity can be a powerful way to turn life’s experiences into something meaningful while inspiring others along the way.
Catch more conversations like this on Sakhisizwe, only on Bush Radio 89.5 FM the Mother of Community Radio.
Written by Oyisa Ntlombe
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