Jerusalema Hit-Maker Nomcebo Zikode Asserts That Sometimes People Undervalue Entertainers

South African singer and songwriter Nomcebo Zikode has expressed concern about how little some people value entertainers.

Speaking to Culture Daily host MzGee on 3Music TV for #Unpackin, the JERUSALEMA hit-maker explained that, the industry is a tough space to be in and that when artistes are not recognized appropriately for their dedication and sacrifice, things start to get unsettling. Referring to her song JERUSALEMA, she revealed that although she wrote it, some people still perceive she plagiarized an already-existing song. This, she implies, makes her feel less appreciated.

“Some people will find for instance JERUSALEMA, this song I wrote but you will find someone saying you didn’t write this song, this is an old song from church. So that statement alone will show me that oh my gosh! These people are supposed to embrace me and make their research to understand that really I wrote the song and I’ve done a beautiful thing for the country of South Africa. So to have someone comment like that, it breaks my heart because I’m expecting that person to embrace what I’ve done for South Africa. Because once you write such comments you are spreading wrong rumours about me," she stated.

The South African musician also revealed she is available for collaborations with other talents across Africa and beyond. She believes working together symbolizes unity.

“Anyone is welcome to work with me. I can’t really mention one name. There are a few songs that I opened a few spaces. I’m still thinking about who exactly I’m going to feature, also now I’m going to the Grammys I want to check whom I can put on those songs. Collaboration to me means unity. Whether Africans or as people in the world. You are together and support each other. To collaborate with someone in Ghana shows that we love one another. Especially when you are African it shows that you are not separated.”

At the 65th Grammy Awards, Nomcebo Zikode has been nominated for Best Global Music Performance together with Zakes Bantwini and Wouter Kellerman. Their song, BAYETHE, has been nominated. On February 5, the event will take place in Los Angeles.