BULAWAYO-BASED hip-hop and kwaito singer Ngqabutho Admire Mpala reckons he never dreamt of being a rapper until he finished high school.
As he found hope and peace falling in love with music, Mpala decided to settle for kwaito and hip-hop with the belief that he will excel in the genres.
“I started music after high school in 2019 after I met different artistes like Djy Clxstoes who helped me push my music. I also met Beyond Africa Record label producer Siya_Mdumisa whom I started to work with from 2019 as he produced my first song, Phakamani to date,” he told NewsDay Life & Style.
“During my journey in the music industry, I have also met Yung Freezah and Cejee Tellem. They have taught and shared their knowledge with me.”
The 22-year-old singer, also known as Bleu_ice, said he was given this stage name by his grandfather after he shared with him his vision.
“I asked my grandfather what he meant by Bleu_ice. He said your favourite colour is blue. You lighten the mood and the day of everyone you meet, but again your heart is made of steel. It is cold, once you get hurt it is hard for you to just heal so you are Bleu_ice,” he said, adding that his music encompassed societal issues.
“I was inspired by the likes of KO, KWESTA, Zakwe and the late Cal_Vin. I started rapping to inspire the kids who are still growing and most of my themes are of life lessons, love and the dangers of drug abuse.
“I have also learnt that music needs patience, I almost gave up last year because, it was hard for me to write songs, pay for studio sessions and make music while no one in the family believed in me.”
Bleu_ice promised his fans two new singles, Mazuvano and Day Ones set to be released this February.
He said the song Day Ones would be mastered and produced at Free_llem Entertainment Records in Bulawayo.