Over 300 000 Facebook users and more than 100 000 Instagram users who follow musician and 2020 Idols SA runner-up Mr. Music are likely to do just about anything to get a few moments to spend with the talented young singer.

For UNIZULU Choir members however, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity was presented with ease on Friday, 13 August 2021- all thanks to the efforts of Choir Conductor Bhekani Buthelezi.

Mr. Music, whose real name is Lungisani Mthethwa, hails from KwaMbonambi in Richards Bay. Following his immaculate representation of the Zululand region in the 16^th season of Idols SA, Buthelezi saw it fit to honour the musician at the University of Zululand’s Creative Arts Department. Buthelezi contacted Mr. Music’s management team which gladly agreed to visit the University choir.

Upon his arrival, the singer was treated to a sterling dance performance to music legend Mbongeni Ngema’s hit song Stimela Sasezola. What made this moment special was that Mr Music performed the same song during one of the stages of the Idols competition- a rendition that garnered the praise and respect of the judges.

After the performance, Mr Music had an intimate session with the choir where he shared his life story, starting from when he discovered his love for music to his journey on Idols and finally the path he is currently carving in the music industry. He also gave the choristers some advice regarding how to conduct themselves as musicians.

“Know your territory; know yourself. Pride is a talent killer. Kill it before it kills your talent,” said Mr. Music as he warned the choristers about feeling threatened about their fellow choir members.

“Do not take your gift for granted. God gave it to you for a purpose,” he continued.

He also emphasised the importance of having at least three varied musicians to look up to as the influences from these individuals will help them become well-rounded artists.

Once the talk was over, the choir members were afforded the opportunity to ask the singer their burning questions. Thereafter, it was, as Buthelezi jokingly described, “selfie o’clock”. Cameras were flashing as students took turns capturing their physical encounter with Mr. Music.

– Naledi Hlefane