She won last year’s edition of SA’s Got Talent and since then, Tholwana Mohale has been hard at work writing music and recording her debut album – things 15-year-olds dream about. Her debut single ‘Hollywood Guy’ is racing up charts all over the country and it seems Tholwana’s career is starting on the right foot. I caught up with the budding star and got the scoop on her debut single, her upcoming album and who she’s dying to collaborate with.
Congrats on your new single! What inspired ‘Hollywood Guy’?
Thank you, El! Well, there was a guy at my old school that I had a huge crush on. We were just friends but all my friends were rooting for us to get together. I didn’t tell him or anyone I liked him… I decided to rather express my emotions though my music. I was sitting in my room one evening and the chorus just came to me. I started writing the verses but I didn’t finish the song right there and then. The second half of the song is actually about someone new that I met here in Johannesburg! The track has taught me that sometimes things just don’t work out, but they lead you to better things. “Hollywood Guy” is pretty much about finding that special person in your life.
How would you describe your sound?
Edgy pop! I’m still experimenting with my sound so don’t be surprised if end up with a mixed batch for my debut album next year.
You’re only 15 and you’re already writing songs. How did your song writing process begin?
When I was 11 I started playing guitar and it kind of developed from there. I haven’t been able to stop writing ever since.
What can we look forward to on your debut album?
I’m hoping to show South Africa that I’m here to stay and that I’m serious about my craft, even though I am still young. I’d like to experiment with my sound while I’m young to find a niche and to try impress people with my song writing and my voice. I want to take my time to put out something I can be proud of.
The reaction to ‘Hollywood Guy’ has been amazing. Did you expect the flood of praise?
Not at all! The label had mentioned that there was good feedback from the team internally, but I didn’t know what to expect when it came to the public. Everyone has been very supportive and I’m so thankful to all the radio stations that are currently supporting my song. I mean, I’m charting on radio nationally? It’s a dream come true for me.
After winning SAs Got Talent, you took some time off to make sure your debut single is perfect. What did you learn during that time off?
It wasn’t really time off as I moved from my hometown to Johannesburg and started writing and recording right from the offset. I’ve learnt that it takes hard work and commitment to refine your craft and I’m still working hard and learning every day.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten so far?
Stay true to who you are, no matter what happens.
Which local and international star would you love to work with?
Locally I’d love to work with Jimmy Nevis as he is incredibly talented. Internationally …. BEYONCE!
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