Actor Dingaan Khumalo, best known for his iconic role as James Motsamai in the beloved soap opera Muvhango, is making waves on social media after the release of his latest amapiano track. A video of Khumalo’s performance was shared by MDN News on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, August 17, and it has quickly garnered attention, sparking a mix of reactions from fans and critics alike.
Khumalo’s foray into the amapiano genre is not entirely surprising; in an interview with Sowetan back in 2021, he expressed his desire to explore music as a way to break free from his serious on-screen persona. “For all my life, I have been this serious and tough guy. I felt it was time to do something different, something out of character that SA will enjoy,” he explained. The actor acknowledged that stepping into the world of amapiano might invite judgment from those who associate him solely with his dramatic roles, but he is determined to embrace this new chapter in his career.
At 46 years old, Khumalo is tapping into a passion he discovered at a young age, thanks in part to his family’s involvement in music. Growing up in a choir environment fostered his love for melodies and rhythms, and now he is ready to share that passion with a broader audience. In his latest project, he collaborated with Promise Sihle Tshabalala, also known as Bhubesi, to create a track that reflects their shared enthusiasm for music. “I decided to work with him because he is passionate. I have noticed that he loves music and have seen that when we work together for Moja Love,” Khumalo shared, highlighting the organic nature of their collaboration, which began with freestyling during work sessions.
The inspiration for his track, titled “Gabadiya,” came to Khumalo unexpectedly while he was in a business meeting, showcasing his ability to draw creativity from various aspects of his life. As he navigates this new musical journey, the reactions from South Africans have been mixed, demonstrating the challenges that come with crossing over into a new artistic domain.
Social media users have voiced their opinions, with some expressing skepticism about his musical talent. Comments ranged from humorous critiques to outright dismissals, with one user stating, “He finally did the pots that made the pots not to happen,” while another remarked, “This is cow dung, masepa straight!” However, not all reactions were negative; many fans are excited to see Khumalo take this bold step and are eager to support him in his musical endeavors.
As Dingaan Khumalo continues to explore his musical side, it remains to be seen how his fans will embrace this new venture. Whether he faces criticism or applause, one thing is clear: Khumalo is determined to break free from his established image and share a different facet of his creativity with the world. As the amapiano genre continues to gain popularity in South Africa and beyond, Khumalo’s journey serves as a reminder that artists can evolve, surprise, and entertain in unexpected ways.
