Closing in on two decades of hustle in the music industry, Sbonda’s big break came last year when the Kwasa star served up ‘Zwinamunamu’.
An iKalanga term for something sweet and tasty, the song has gained huge popularity as a dance anthem, catapulting the Francistown-based 35-year-old into the mainstream and earning him gigs from reputable companies such as Letshego.
In your own words, who are you and how long have you been ‘doing’ music?
My name is Tabaka Kombani; I am a father to three children, who I enjoy playing with in my spare time. My stage name is Sbonda from Makaleng village in the North East of Botswana (Bokalaka). I started my music career in 2007 as a dancer at My African Dream talent search. In 2010 after learning some few music tricks I recorded my first album called ‘Sekongothela’ which is House Kwasa. I plan to add more songs and release ‘Zwinamunamu’ as an album this year.
Tell us about Zwinamunamu?
It was recorded in May at Emjoe Records in Gaborone and released in September. Zwinamunamu is an Afro Kwasa single. Fans love it as it is a danceable track intended to keep them on their toes. It is an energetic piece one cannot listen to without wanting to dance.
You sing exclusively in Kalanga – why is that and aren’t you afraid it might limit your potential following?
I opt to sing in Kalanga because I want to promote our language and preserve my culture. I do not want my language to be depleted thus spreading it in music and dance to ensure it continues to thrive. I grew up in a family of Bakalanga, so it is easy for me to play with the words of kalanga
What challenges have you faced in your musical journey?
Lack of finance! It is very hard to secure bookings; I plead with individuals and companies to engage local artists in their events.
Speaking of bookings, what are the biggest stages you’ve performed on?
I have performed at Kwambala Music Festival, Jazz Mu Toropo, Nyangabgwe Hill Cultural Fest, just to mention a few. Over festive, I was part of the line-up at the Taswika Festival in Makobo on Christmas Day.
Who is your favourite artist locally?
My favorite artist is Maxy. I like listening to her songs a lot and enjoy the way she plays with lyrics.
Singing is hungry work – what’s your go-to meal before a big gig?
Kalanga cuisines are my ‘ride or die’ more especially papa and delele.
Who inspired you to pursue your music dream?
I was deeply inspired by my late mother and brother. They were the major influence on my career and life path.
May their souls continue to rest in peace! Aside from making music, I understand you’re also a dab hand at making drinks – tell us a bit about your cocktail business?
I am a professional mobile mixologist in the cocktail business. Wherever I am invited I go, be it weddings, parties and various celebrations. I gained experience from the Hotels where I used to work before I started to stand on my own in 2018.
Five things people don’t know about you?
1. I am a good football player
2. I believe in God
3. I am a father to two boys and one girl
4. I am a good dancer, be it break dance, pop dance, traditional dance and kwasakwasa
5. I am good with the pots
