Former street sweeper launches album

Cape Town - Former street sweeper and the winner of the second season of SA's Got Talent, James Bhemgee, is set to launch his debut album entitled Vincero – My Victory.

Bhemgee, who hails from the Cape Flats, first came to the spotlight when he won the talent-spotting competition hosted by SABC2 in 2010.

Previously employed as a sweeper by the Cape Town city council, the opera singer was discovered by a woman who offered to pay for vocal lessons to help improve his natural talent.

'Magical journey'

He later joined other singers from his neighbourhood to form the group Cape Flats Tenors.

The singer says it is a dream come true for him to be able to release his own album. "All I have ever wanted was for people to hear me sing. I have had unbelievable and magical journey since winning SA’s Got Talent."

Since winning the competition the musician has been in constant demand and has performed at well known festivals like the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival and Last Night of the Proms.

The 10-track album features a selection of beloved arias and songbook standards, including Nessun Dorma, O Sole Mio, two versions of Ave Maria (Schubert and Bach), Nella Fantasia, Gira Con Me (the song he sang during the SA's Got Talent final) and Grenada.

Vincero – My Victory will be available early April at all leading retail music stores and is also available to buy through James' official website.