A young growing musician, Phumela Gqomose (24), born in the outskirts of Queenstown is the eldest daughter of four children. She resides in East London but is based in Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth). She is currently completing a qualification in a diploma of Tourism Management at the Nelson Mandela University. She has an immense passion for music and plans to make a mark in the music industry by showcasing her talent.
As someone who took a career path in the tourism industry, what inspired you to get into music? "I am one person who loves traveling. It has always been my interest. I would not say I got into the wrong path by pursuing a qualification in Tourism. However, my mom has been my greatest inspiration in my musical journey. She was once a backing vocalist for Stompi Mavi and she recorded her own live debut album at Guild Theatre in 2015. With that being said, her achievements have been an aspiration for me to want to discover myself as a musician".
Have you ever considered joining any singing competition (s) before being independent? "I've entered a sing star competition held in East London by Peggy Nesta Foundation and I won. I also tried Idols but my audition was unsuccessful".
What achievements do you have thus far, while juggling being a student and a musician simultaneously? "Memorably, I've sang and Gaster Sharpely's book launch in East London. In 2022 alone, I've recorder about four songs and released one titled 'Sul'ezonyembezi'. The song is currently on music platforms such as YouTube music, iTunes, Spotify and Apple music. I did have gigs at the ViP lounge where two of the songs were performed for the purpose of promotion. In one of the gigs, I got an opportunity to perform in the presence of a famously known artist, DJ Maphorisa".
Conclusively, what would you say has been a culmination of trying to get out there and be recognized? "As challenging as it was, my greatest high spot especially in this particular year was the support I received from the student populace of Nelson Mandela University, especially strangers. I appreciate how people pulled through for me and my gigs, countlessly. The support gave me strength to continue with the motivation behind what I have started".