Tshivenda traditional-music artist Ntanganedzeni Ramukakate, better known by her stage name of Tshibode, did not achieve her current success by accident. From a very young age, the girl from Matangari Tshiawelo, outside Thohoyandou, would watch her father, the late Mr Joas Ratshihedane Munyai Ramukakate, play his favourite instrument, the mbila. She developed a keen interest in music and began singing as her father’s backup singer.

It came as no surprise when the 39-year-old released her first gospel album, Dilileleni, in 2021. She has since made a big comeback by releasing her first Tshivenda traditional music album, Nisongo Vhona Tsimba yo Naiwa. The eight-track album, released on 23 July this year, boasts beautiful music, with the title track Ni Songo Vhona Tsimba yo Naiwa and Maitele standing out as highlights.

“My new album is like going back to my roots,” said the singer, who currently lives in Pretoria. “I have lived and loved traditional music since I was born, and it has always been my wish to record a traditional music album. It was by chance that I met musician Dumbu Mazikule in 2022. He introduced me to studio owner Mr Ishy Malala of Tshau Records, who is also the founder of the Tshivenda Traditional Music Organisation. That's when I started working on this project,” she explained.

Ramukakate also enlisted the help of well-known musicians Dzomolavenda and Vhonetshivhodza. “I am happy to have finally achieved my dream by releasing this project. I know my father is happy where he is. He loved traditional music wholeheartedly and also taught me the ropes,” she said.

The fact that the album was so well-received by fans has boosted Tshibode’s confidence. “I am already working on material for the next project. What I request from fans is their support because, without it, we are nothing. We are also appealing to promoters to book us for gigs as music is our lifeline,” she said.