Acclaimed Idols singer Vhudie, the voice behind the chart-topping “Yoki Yoki”, has his sights set on winning an award at the upcoming South African Traditional Music Achievement Awards (SATMA). Vhudie, born Vhudihawe Mamphwe at Mulenzhe village, has been nominated in not one but two categories for this year’s prestigious awards, namely Best Tshivenda Artist and Best Afro Soul Song.

The highly anticipated awards ceremony is to be held in Durban on 15 December and promises a night of celebration and recognition of exceptional talents in the traditional music genre.

Vhudie’s musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. His captivating song “Tshinakaho”, released just a year ago, has resonated with audiences far and wide, earning him great popularity with music fans. “Tshinakaho” is a reflection on his life when he was just 15 years old and fell deeply in love with a beautiful girl who was older than him. “Her beauty was simply out of this world. I was so afraid to talk to her. I looked out for her every time she walked past our house, just to catch a glimpse of her. One day, I allowed my imagination to run wild, and I envisioned myself talking to her. What I expressed in the song ‘Tshinakaho’ is a reflection of those vivid daydreams that occupied my thoughts,” he said.

Regarding his recent nomination for a SATMA, he was very humbled. “It feels awesome to be among the nominees. It gives me so much hope for the future. I truly feel special and deeply appreciated,” he said.

His advice to aspiring musicians is to never stop believing in themselves. “Do what you love and put all your trust in God. We are nothing without God. Your time too shall come; every dog has its day.”