N’wa Khambani on Gaza Empress, six Xitsonga Music Awards nominations and building a legacy

The last time I spoke to N’wa Khambani, she was fresh from dropping her debut EP, First Lady, and we talked about her music, fashion and some of the big ambitions she had for her career.

A few months later, there’s plenty to catch up on.

The 20-year-old Xigaza artist has just released her new album, Gaza Empress, and heads into this year’s Xitsonga Music Awards with six nominations.

So, of course, I had to check in again.
This time, we talk about Gaza Empress, the artists she’s been working with, her growing love for fashion, life at 20 and what she wants to do next.

A lot has happened since we last spoke. How has life been treating you?

Life has been good to me. I’ve also been learning a lot about the music industry.

You went from First Lady to Gaza Empress. What does that progression mean to you?

First Lady represents a queen, while an empress is a queen of queens. For me, Gaza Empress shows how much I’ve grown since my previous project.

Your new album has 12 tracks. What can listeners expect from Gaza Empress?

They can look forward to a 12-track project that reflects different situations people experience in life. I believe it’s a masterpiece.

Which song are you most excited for people to hear?

Mafanato.

Who did you work with on Gaza Empress, and what was it like bringing everyone together for the project?

It was great working with different talents and bringing everyone together for one project.

I worked on the songs with King Vee Stapia. On production, mixing and mastering, I worked with Mpanyas The Producer, Dony G, Kulza RSA, Flash Cortez, Snipes and Reef Musa.

The project also features vocals from Henny C, Mhan Flo, XamaCcombo Wa Mhana Vafana, Akanitouch, Bloshy, Khanyie, Itris, Sunglen Chabalala, Majah Revaldo and Life Enhle.

Of the collaborations you’ve done so far, which one has been especially memorable?

My collaboration with Sunglen Chabalala. The energy she brought into the studio was amazing, and I really had so much fun working with her.

Who’s currently at the top of your collaboration wish list?

Shandesh.

You received six XMA nominations this year. Where were you when you found out?

I was at the Munghana Lonene nominations event, where I was also one of the performing artists. The nominations were announced live in front of me, and I honestly couldn’t believe it. It felt like a dream.

Is there one nomination that means a little more to you than the others?

No, they all mean the same to me because this is my first time being nominated for a music award.

Have you started thinking about what you’re wearing to the XMAs yet?

Not yet, it’s still too early. But you just gave me a hint. I have to start planning my outfit.

Fashion has become a noticeable part of N’wa Khambani. How involved are you in choosing your looks?

My team comes up with ideas and we work together to make sure N’wa Khambani always stands out and that we can convey a message through fashion.

Is there one N’wa Khambani outfit that really stands out for you?

Yes, I have a pair of pants with bottle tops around them. It was the first unique piece of art I ever wore. They’re comfortable and still stand out to this day.

What about Nhlovo on a normal day? What are we likely to find you wearing?

Track pants, a baggy T-shirt and flip-flops.

You’re entering your twenties while your career is growing. What are you looking forward to most?

I want to experience life, have fun and keep learning in my twenties. Most importantly, I want to build a brand that will become a legacy.

What’s one thing you haven’t done yet that you’re excited to experience?

Hosting my own show every year.

What’s the next big dream for N’wa Khambani?

Winning in everything I do.

If we interview you again this time next year, what do you hope we’ll be talking about?

My experience in hosting events.

Gaza Empress by N’wa Khambani is out now.