South African singer and songwriter Zoë Modiga has been chosen as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa’s June ambassador.
Modiga is a jazz and soul music artist known for her dynamic voice, innovative compositions, and deep connection to her cultural roots.
Her previous works have earned her numerous accolades, including multiple South African Music Awards nominations and a growing international fanbase.
Modiga, who has continued to push the boundaries of jazz and soul music with her latest offering, said people do not know that she has grown a hard shell out of necessity and survival but is a deeply sensitive and empathetic person.
Songs for all seasons
Growing up in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and raised by her grandparents, they ate, danced, cried, listened to music together, and everything in between.
“Seeing how music was the soundtrack to our lives, I remember always wanting to one day impact people the same way those records did,” she said.
“I continue to pursue, explore, and express myself this way because it feels like purposeful work. It fills my cup to make songs that live with people in all the seasons they live through.”
She grew up listening to African artists such as Jabu Khanyile, Letta Mbuli, Khadja Nin, Judith Sephuma, Salif Keita, Zamajobe, Caiphus Semenya, and Brenda Fassie, to name a few.
Follow your dreams
Modiga describes her sound tone and style as soulful, spirited, cultured, and inspired by modern African music that celebrates the human experience and mirrors internal and societal thoughts.
She encourages young people to follow their dreams as an act of embracing all of who they are.
“It is important to be defiant and unwavering about that. You are a gift from and to the universe, and we are waiting for you to share with us.
“It will not be a path without resistance, but it will be glorious,” she said.
