For over three decades, Ntombi Mtshali has been a force woven into the very fabric of African music. This voice has travelled the world, shared stages with legends, and carried the heartbeat of a continent to audiences far and wide.
From her debut as Junny Mtshali to touring internationally with the late reggae icon Lucky Dube alongside global greats like UB40, Ziggy Marley, and Burning Spear,
Ntombi’s journey is a tapestry of genre-defying artistry.
Her fearless spirit led her to explore new sounds with Chicco Twala’s Harley and the Rasta Family, collaborate with icons Brenda Fassie, Stimela, Simphiwe Dana, Dozi, Moolman, and international star Stef Bos, and later join Yvonne Chaka Chaka before releasing her own acclaimed acappella EP, Ntomby.
Her artistry has not only earned her BVSM Award recognition but also placed her on stages of purpose ,like the Pretoria State Theatre, where she performed alongside the late Sbongile Khumalo in Kwanele, a stirring musical confronting gender-based violence and child abuse.
Ntombi Mtshali is more than a musician ,she is a storyteller, a cultural bridge, and a living testament to the power of music to heal, unite, and inspire.
Meet CreatePreneur Africa: South Africa’s Ntombi Mtshali – From Township Stages to Global Icons
1. Tell us what drives you? What is your true passion in life?
Music is my heartbeat. It’s the language I use to connect with people across cultures, to tell stories, and to inspire change. My passion lies in creating music that uplifts, educates, and unites.
2. How did you find your passion and how old were you?
I discovered my love for music as a young girl, but it became my life’s calling when I recorded my first album three decades ago as Junny Mtshali. That moment confirmed that music was not just a talent — it was my destiny.
3. What about your passion appeals to you the most?
The power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together. Whether performing with legends like Lucky Dube, UB40, or Ziggy Marley, I’ve seen firsthand how music can speak to the soul without needing translation.
4. What drove you to make money from your passions?
I wanted to turn my gift into a sustainable career — not just for myself, but to inspire others that it’s possible to live off your art while staying true to your message.
5. When was the first time you were paid for your passion?
It was in the early days of my career, performing live shows after my debut album. That first payment was more than money — it was validation that my art had value.
6. What kept you going when you thought about giving up?
The knowledge that my music touches lives. Even in challenging times, I remembered the faces in the audience, the letters from fans, and the causes I’ve supported — like performing in Kwanele, a musical addressing gender-based violence and child abuse.
7. What motivates you every day to be even more successful?
The desire to keep growing as an artist. I’ve explored different genres, worked with icons like Brenda Fassie, Stimela, and Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and I’m still hungry to learn, collaborate, and inspire.
8. What do you have to say to all of the people who doubted you?
Thank you — your doubt fueled my determination. Every “no” I heard became a reason to push harder and prove that my dreams were worth fighting for.
9. What advice do you give to aspiring creatives who look up to you?
Stay true to your voice, be open to learning from others, and never be afraid to explore new paths. Your journey will be uniquely yours; embrace it fully.
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