Clinton Makabongwe Ndlela is a Durban based recording artist, stylist and all round creative. As we gear up for the release of his much anticipated single Ngisebhishi, (produced by @ Nightmare Henry and Frvrsimxce), we had the pleasure of catching up with him, as we discussed all things Soft Guluva on the eve of his single debut.

1. You’ve recently been teasing your upcoming project Soft Guluva, where does the inspiration for the project come from?

The inspiration for the project came from my surroundings, which is of course Kwa-Mashu aka the greatest township in the world. I feel like it is so rich in culture, fashion, music & tradition which is the perfect soil to plant an important seed like my project Soft Guluva.

2. When it comes to the type of music and visuals you put out there, what would you say your greatest sources of are?

My day to day experiences are definitely the prime source to the music and visuals that I put out. On a day to day basis, I get to experience different things and through the music, I get to speak about them. I get the chance to share the conversations and interactions that I come across on a day to day. Life in general is definitely an important source that contributes to my art.

3. When it comes to navigating the music world, especially in this day and age where social media plays such a big role, how do you remain true to your sound without being swept by the ever changing musical media buzz?

On my favourite album of all time which is to pimp a butterfly by Kendrick Lamar, the intro which is titled Wesley’s theory. Dr Dre speaks to Kendrick asking him if he still remembers when he used to say he wanted a house like Dr Dre’s, he proceeds to tell him “anybody can get it, the hard part is keeping it” so that’s how I just chose to perceive the way that I express myself. Anyone has the ability to reiterate whatever style is popular at the time but, I like to challenge myself by being true to self about my music and everything else that I do.

4. Would you say where you grew up plays a role in the type of music and visuals you put out there?

Most definitely, it plays such a prominent role because I have first hand experience of it so, I try my best to incorporate my birthplace in fresh & artistic way because it really is a big part of me.

5. Lastly, what does it mean to be a “Soft Guluva” to you?

Being a Soft Guluva is the ability to balancing consciousness, especially for African people in the sense of the term ‘guluva’ is urban slang word that is often used to describe rebellious & confident individuals in South Africa, that term having a penultimate of ‘soft’ indicates intent and intellect which serves as a perfect balance to the prior.

As a self proclaimed “Cheese wase lokhishin”, I think it’s safe to say that the greatest lokhishin is in safe hands.

Ngisebhishi (single and visuals directed and shot by @Pluugtalk) drops on Friday- 09/08/2024 on all streaming platforms. Pre-save the single here.