Limpopo’s wedding songs artist, Tiisetso Swafo, has rapidly ascended to prominence, largely as a result of his involvement in SABC1’s esteemed drama series, Uzalo.
Swafo plays the role of Tebelelo, who made a debut in the drama series on October 4 when he travelled to Durban in KwaZulu-Natal to reconnect with his estranged brother, Umzimba.
In an interview with Sunday World, Swafo said he is happy for Uzalo head honchos to have granted him an opportunity to express himself in his mother tongue, Sepedi, in the isiZulu-dominated soapie.
Boost to his music career
He added that being in Uzalo has been a boost to both his music career and personal circumstances. These have markedly improved. His songs are now receiving considerable acknowledgment. They often dominate the airwaves of various radio stations across Limpopo.
“Uzalo is a significant drama series that boasts a vast following throughout the nation,” he said.
“As a person from Limpopo, lacking any substantial prior acting experience, being cast in a prestigious show like Uzalo, which is dominated by the Zulu-speaking language, was merely a fanciful hope that felt unreachable.”
He added that collaborating with renowned actors was a standout experience in his career. One such actor is Thabo Mnguni, who is known as Mr Mbatha in the drama series.
Swafo, 35, was born and raised in the quaint, dusty village of Ga-Mathabatha, outside Lebowakgomo. He shared how he came upon an advert for auditions for the character of Tebelelo.
Voice over artist
“As someone who has a penchant for exploration, I decided to give it a shot. And after recording a video of myself, I submitted it,” he reflected.
“I was astonished when I received the call notifying me of my selection. The emotion was overwhelming. It had always been my aspiration to appear on national television,” Swafo recalled. He confirmed that he is under a one-year recurring role contract with the series.
Before Uzalo, Swafo, who has a diploma in public relations from the University of South Africa, was a voice-over artist for local radio stations.
“The advertising roles gave me opportunities to forge connections with music curators at radio stations. However, it was Uzalo that truly unlocked numerous doors for me.
“Beside allowing me to express myself in my language, it has also showcased several of my songs. And it afforded me the opportunity to perform them as part of my narrative,” he elaborated.
Attained fame
“Today, I am highly sought after across Limpopo and other provinces for a variety of roles. These range from master of ceremonies to performing artist. Many people are eager to meet me in person, as they perceive me to be their celebrity.”
Swafo says Kenneth Nkosi inspired him to pursue acting.
Concerning his musical journey, Swafo said he started his professional career in 1999 at the age of nine.
“Coming from a village like ours, we are predominantly immersed in manyalo (weddings) music. Growing up in that setting subjected us to a multitude of wedding festivities. That is why I naturally gravitated towards becoming a manyalo musician,” he articulated.
Grateful to series
Swafo expressed immense gratitude to the producers of Uzalo. He thanked them for offering him a pivotal opportunity that enhanced his life since his debut on the series.
“I am equally thankful to other manyalo musicians like Pleasure tsa Manyalo and Ezra Moropodi. Their invaluable support and mentorship… have greatly contributed to my development in the music industry.”
His popular tracks include Ikemishetxe go laolwa, a significant message for women preparing for marriage. It encourages them to embody a spirit of submission to their husbands.
