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Johannesburg - Most of Europe loves him! But back home in Mzansi, not many people have heard of musician, Bongeziwe, never mind listened to his music.
Besides being honoured in France and much of Europe, South African muso Bongeziwe Mabandla has struggled to reach the same heights in Mzansi.
"I've just returned from a 5 week tour in Canada. I'm going to Australia again later this year. I've toured in Japan, France, Spain, Germany and America," he tells The Juice.
"All my travels have taught me that when you live in South Africa, your view of music tends to be limited. I've learnt that the world is a very big place and there is room for so many different styles. I have learnt that I don't have to change my style to fit in. I can be myself and still find a place for me in the world," he says.
Bongeziwe will soon be entertaining South African audiences, accompanying George Ezra on his upcoming South African tour, but says he feels a little let down by his home crowd.
"I used to struggle a lot with South African audiences. People would not even keep quiet during my gigs. But going overseas has helped me gain some respect for myself and taught me that maybe I am worth listening to, maybe I am worth the time," he laments.
To prove the point once more, Bongeziwe says he is planning to release his next album in the next few months, but that he fears he may have to release it by himself because of a real lack of interest and support from the industry.
