Local artist opens up about his musical journey

Burgersfort, Ga-Manyaka

By: Palesa Makanyane

A local hit maker wants the country to recognize local talent. Oliver Manyaka from Ga-Manyaka has left his comfort zone and followed his dream to become a multi-talented singer.

Oliver also known as ToySoulJah grew up in a religious and musical home as he is a Preacher’s son; he had to participate in church. He says he started off as a keyboard player from a young age and that was the beginning of his love for music and decided to make it his career.

“In 2014, I formed a group called DTA. It was a HipHop group; we used to rap music until I decided to go solo in 2016. I managed to release my first album called Boliqua Boliqua and Get Down hit that went viral on social media. I sold more than 500 of hard copies of the albums and the support was just too great” ToySoulJah said.

Like any local artist, challenges are always there. ToySoulJah explained that the disadvantage part of staying in a small town is having limited opportunities.

“We are far from everything, no record companies or publishing companies which obviously will take your sweat to become well-known without them. But I am grateful for my fans because they are my publishers, at the moment I am not signed and lack funds to promote my music,” said ToySoulJah.

Through all the challenges, he still managed to get his songs played on the biggest music channel, Channel O. The 27-year-old has worked with well-known artists, the likes of King Salama and DJ Call Me. He gives all credits to Rural King who made it all possible.

He believes he achieved a lot so far as he performed with celebrities like King Monada, Amanda Black, The Soil, Ringo and Saudi. Oliver’s wish is to make something with King Monada.

ToySoulJah advises the youth to never lose hope even if it feels like it’s taking forever. You will get there eventually.