BY Nkosazana Ngwadla
As The Soil prepares to release its 5th studio album after so many years in hiatus, it will be without its founding member, Buhlebendalo Mda, who has embarked on what appears to be a successful solo career.
However, The Soil fans are up for a treat when it introduces Theo Matshoba whose vocal prowess is a breath of fresh air. Theo, who came up tops when The Soil went on a search for a female vocalist to fill in during Buhle’s spiritual sabbatical, is officially now the 3rd member of the group.
Buhle, who is fast carving her own niche has decided to leave the group, to focus on her solo career and publishing company. Citing the need to focus on her mental health and growth, Buhle had this to say, “I grew up as the child of The Soil. I have graced local and international stages and performed at some of the biggest festivals, in front of huge audiences, here and abroad. I can never replace the time I have had with the group, but it’s time to grow and face this cutthroat industry on my own. I know I can do it”
Bublebendalo, who has recently opened up an artist hub, which caters for women, children and queer people, said she is rooting for Theo and is confident that she will be the ‘best version of her own self”.
“The Soil without Buhle is not going to be the same. We grew up in this group together, but we support her and wish her all the best in her new endeavour” said the two brothers, Phindo and Ntsika, who have been with Buhle since high school.
Native Rhythms boss, Velile Sithole, said, “It’s a new chapter that we are now writing and we hope the script will read beautifully. I have had the pleasure of working with Buhle for over a decade now.
She is a towering figure, with such talent that always reveals itself on stage. I know she will be successful as she embarks on her new venture”.
The Soil fans, (better known to the group as The Soil family), should brace themselves for all the magic that is about hit them, as Theo gears to take up her own space in the group.
“In the same breath we are exceedingly excited by the beautiful dynamism that Theo’s rare gift brings to the group’s creative ethos”, added the brothers.
Image: Instagram
