Who is Sange M?
Sange is a name given by in-laws which simply means ‘hug us or take care of us’, and M is my Surname ‘Mxunyelwa’. Sange’s original name is Neliswa Sampi but the name Sange M sounded nice and short; easy to be said by anyone and it has a meaning relevant to Sange’s line of work, hence it was chosen for the stage name. Sange M is an artist (singer, actress, drummer, composer, choreographer), but what she is known mostly for is being a musician. She also wears some caps of being a mother, wife, sister, student, worshiper, the list is endless.
Who/What got you into music?
Like most of the artists would testify that, they have started singing at a very young age and at church. That applies to me too, I started singing at church in the community choir at the age of 6. My family would sing everyday whenever and whenever. So I grew up in a family that loves singing too.
Tell us about your typical Day.
My typical day would be waking up in the morning and check if my kids are sorted for going to school, go jogging, bath my little one, eat breakfast, travel to varsity, come back and cook, pray with family, watch TV programs while eating supper, study then go to sleep.
What do you do when you are not working on music?
When I am not busy with music, I study because I am student at UCT doing Honours in Education. I also like to observe and help those who are in need of help. I do this by organising awareness campaigns and by getting together with other artists to just go to charities and just be useful there.
What is the best part of your work?
The best part of my work is seeing my audience being touched by what I say or by one of my songs. I like making a positive change in people’s lives, so I become happy when I see that happens.
How/where do you see yourself/your work in the next 3 years?
In the next three years I see myself lecturing in one of the big university or being very busy traveling around the world performing.
Which word do you use the most?
Jeez.
What is your favourite childhood memory?
When my dad would come from work and I am sure that he has brought something. He never got home empty handed
Do you think that social media is adding or subtracting from the youth?
I think both, depends on how one looks at it.
Who is your inspiration/role model?
My mother is my role model/inspiration.
If you could throw a parade of any caliber through the President’s office, what type of parade would it be?
Corruption must fall parade.
What is your least favourite thing about the music scene lately?
The fact that the South African music is being considered as first priority for airplay, though I am not that happy as yet.
Do you prefer a pen and notepad or a tablet/laptop for writing?
A pen and note pad.
What was the last gift you gave someone?
A purse.
Are you a night owl or a morning person?
A night owl.
What would we find in your fridge right now?
Eggs, burger, chicken feet, fish, juice, water, chicken, chicken necks.
What can we expect from Sange M?
An all-round artist who is not scared to take risks. I don’t limit myself and I don’t remember saying ‘I cannot’. That is why I don’t even like labeling my music because I write what is I feel or what is needed at a time for anyone; be it a child, adult, teenager, youth, country, church, culture, politics etc. I go where others won’t want to go when I am needed. So you can expect very versatile and adventures artist from Sange M
Shisa Nyama or Pub?
Definitely Shisanyama.
What is your most embarrassing moment?
When I refused to listen to some guy, only to find out he wanted to help me with something that was going to embarrass me to many people who were sitting next to me. I thought he wanted to flirt with me…
If this was our last ever conversation, what words of wisdom would you leave me with?
1. Everything happens for a reason.
2. No one is irreplaceable, so respect those around you because that will take you very far.
3. Never say never.
4. Time is very precious respect it.
5. Be professional in everything you do from the onset because first impressions last.
Twitter: @Sange_M
Instagram: @Sange_M
Facebook: Sange Neliswa Mxunyelwa
Facebook Page: Sange M