KhiweG, real name Malakhiwe Grootboom is a name that has been resonating across the music scene with captivating melodies and an enchanting presence. Born in the vibrant city of eQonce, KhiweG’s roots run deep in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. However, it was in the windy city of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) that she was raised, nurtured, and honed her musical talents.
Before we jumped into her music journey, we asked KhiweG about her favorite female musician/s and why the musician/s. Before she responds KhiweG’s eyes light up with admiration. "I have too many favorite female musicians to name just one," she confesses. "To name a few: Zonke Dikana, Msaki, Simphiwe Dana, Spartz Music. The list could go on for days on end."
KhiweG’s reverence for her fellow female artists underscores the rich tapestry of inspiration that colors her musical journey. Each of these artists brings a unique flavour to the music industry, and their influence is undeniable.
Her professional music career began in the year 2021, but her love affair with music dates back much further. "I had been singing for most of my life by then," she reminisces. "Before the professional career began, I was in a choir for most of my school years, which was when I knew that music meant more and did something to me spiritually which then transcended to the physical."
The moniker "KhiweG" found its roots in her YouTube channel where she sang Amagwijo. "For that year or so, I was dubbed the queen of Amagwijo," she shares with a warm smile. "Hence the name of the channel being KweenKhiwe. With that traction and positive energy, I gained the courage to pursue it professionally."
As a female musician, what kind of challenges have you come across so far as you are growing your brand and how are you managing or dealing with those challenges? “Being a female musician comes with its unique set of challenges, and I do not shy away from acknowledging them. By the way being a female human is a 'disadvantage' in this world," she reflects. "We are always policed for just being. In the music industry, I have had my share of being undermined, being underestimated, being controlled, and not being listened to."
But KhiweG’s approach to these challenges is as harmonious as her music. "How I am managing such has been by taking over my career, making my own decisions, and using these qualities that are deemed 'not business-like' to my advantage," she explains. "For example, if something is not sitting well with my emotional side, it is guaranteed to mess with my physical health, so I will not do it even if it is against the business side. The reason for that is I will not be able to perform to my ultimate capacity if a part of me is damaged or compromised."