This is the life story of South African musician Nomcebo Zikode, a Grammy Award winner and one of the top voices in the nation.
Nomcebo Zikode Childhood and Schooling
On October 28, 1985, Nomcebo Nothule Zikode was born in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. After completing her high school education at Ukusa, she went on to study at Havatech College, where she graduated with a degree in information technology.
Zikode Nomcebo’s Music Career
Nomcebo left her village to follow her goals since she was so passionate about music. She began her singing career providing backup vocals for a variety of South African musicians, including Deborah Fraser, Zahara, Lundi Tyamara, and Nhlanhla Nciza.
Ganyani Entertainment recognized her ability and signed her, using her vocals on songs like “NTO,” “Jabulile,” and the 2018 hit single “Emazulwini.” This song was nominated for a South African Music Awards (SAMA) Record of the Year.
The worldwide smash song “Jerusalema,” which Nomcebo and Master KG collaborated on January 2019, marked a turning point in their careers. Her rise to international prominence was sparked by the song, which peaked at number one in several countries and went viral internationally with a dance challenge.
In 2020, Nomcebo released her debut album, “Xola Moya Wam,” capitalizing on her recent rise to fame. Within two weeks of its release, Master KG’s lead song from the album, of the same name, achieved gold certification due to its economic success. In less than a month, the record sold over 150,000 copies and was certified platinum.
Controversy and Endorsements Around Nomcebo Zikode
Notwithstanding her fame, Nomcebo encountered difficulties, such as disputes with song ownership and altercations with Open Mic Productions that hindered her capacity to perform her songs live without permission from the labels. She overcame these obstacles, though, and in 2020 she earned a worldwide record deal with Sony/ATV Music.
Recognition and Awards for Nomcebo Zikode
Numerous honors and nominations have been given to Nomcebo in recognition of his ability and musical accomplishments. In 2020, she was nominated for Best Dance Album at the 27th South African Music Awards. She won the Best Female Artist category at the first KZN Entertainment Awards.
Along with Zakes Bantwini and Grammy-winning flutist Wouter Kellerman, Nomcebo Zikode received her first Grammy Award in 2023 for Best Global Music Performance for the song “Bayethe.”
Nomcebo Zikode Personal Life
Zikode devotes a significant portion of her life to her music, although she keeps her personal life quite private. Her path from a background vocalist to an internationally famous musician continues to serve as an inspiration to many.
Nomcebo Zikode Net Worth
Nomcebo’s entire asset worth is unknown, but SA Notify estimates that the singer is worth between $500,000 and $2 million (about R8.8 million and R35 million).
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