Talented singer Saltie spreads her wings
Saltie might be new on the block but humble beauty with a golden voice is fast making waves in the music industry. This coming weekend she will share the stage with South African gospel giant Dr Tumi at Bojanala Waterfront, at a not-to be-missed concert. Born Tshegofatso Agatha Seabe, she is a singer, songwriter and all-round creative. She started off singing in church and later joined We Must Praise gospel choir before deciding to become a solo artist. Saltie has a powerful voice that would give anyone goosebumps – she sings from the heart and her lyrics are powerful; you have to hear her to appreciate her musical gift. It is this amazing voice that is fast catapulating her to stardom, and she said that she is both excited and nervous to share the stage with Dr Tumi. In a recent interview with Vibe, she explained that venturing out as a solo artist was initially nerve wrecking as she was unsure of herself. “I doubted myself and my music. I was also not clued up on how the music industry works and was forced to learn as much as I could. I did not give up in pursuing my God dreams.” She further said that she is motivated by her love for God, everyday life and the desire for people to know that a life with God is all about a relationship than it is about rules and fear. “I would describe my music as life experiences through the lense of faith,” she said. Saltie has two new singles out, Freedom and Omatla. She explained the meaning behind both songs. “Freedom is a poem I wrote about the need to be free from the hurts of life; pain, depression and darkness. Omatla talks about how powerful and mighty God is, so we must have faith in Him regardless of whatever challenges we might face,” she said. She noted that her favourite line from the latter song goes ‘Ke lebile tatlhego mme nkga phenyo’ (I am faced with misery but I smell victory). Saltie would like to work with local gospel artists Tshepo Lesole and Mathews Matsetse, and internationally with Dr Tumi, Jonathan McReynolds, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, Ntokozo Mbatha and Mahalia among others. She shared that the highlight of her career so far has been meeting and sharing the stage with Joyous Celebration music director Mnqobi Nxumalo, and veteran Joyous Celebration choir member Andiswa Mbatha. Although she is pleased with the growth of the local music industry, Saltie is adamant that more could still be done. “Sponsorship should be taken seriously because music is expensive to produce. Money should be injected into music projects if local artists are to stage quality shows. Artists should be funded and more people should buy tickets to shows,” she said. Saltie noted that young people intent on joining the music industry must put in the work and be open to learning because consistent hard work pays off. “Get informed, ask questions and never be afraid to pursue what you love, and continue dreaming while doing it. Also keep in mind that we are all unique and that there is enough for everyone to shine.” *For updates on and to listen to her music like Facebook page Saltie BW.