Born for the stage

It’s Splashy time! And while Durban fans get ready for a fun-filled Easter weekend of music and entertainment, we’re getting our good vibes from a small-town lass with musical dreams that lead her to our beautiful city.

Casual but elegant, Angel Mazibuko – also known as Angel M on stage – wears her heart on her sleeve. Just shy of five feet tall, this 31-year-old local beauty has a powerhouse voice with a distinctive vocal tone. Her genre of music can be described as a vibrant mix of Afro pop, pop and RnB, and her songs compared to the likes of Tracy Chapman and, one of South Africa’s most beloved bands, Freshlyground.

No stranger to Splashy Fen, she has taken to the Treehouse, Acoustic and River stages since 2020. Armed with her trusty Tanglewood electro-acoustic guitar, she uplifts crowds with her music that makes everybody want to sing along.

“Growing up in Estcourt, I was surrounded by music. My father collected instruments, and my mother—a teacher and singer—always enlisted my siblings and me to help practice songs for her choirs. This sparked my love for music. Despite relocating often due to my father’s work, I always found a place in my school and church choirs.”

After matriculating, Angel moved closer to Durban to pursue a BCom in Marketing and Economics while surrounding herself with friends and groups who shared her passion for music. Determined to break into the local music scene, she braved auditions for Idols South Africa Seasons 15 and 18, impressing judges and making the top 32 both times. She also won the solo category in Durban’s My Connect competition.

“After graduating, I focused on getting gigs and making a living as a live performer in local restaurants and pubs, at weddings, private and public events and festivals in and around KZN.”

Angel’s musical highlights include performances at Splashy, the Hilton Arts Festival, the Sharks Rugby Team Awards, the KZN Sports Awards, Old Mutual’s Music at the Lake series, and the Shongweni Farmers Market.

“Music is special to me because it evokes emotions and can be understood by all of us, regardless of language. I love singing about love, as it drives, touches, and affects us all. Music has also given me the opportunity to travel and connect with incredible, talented people. Splashy represents everything I’m passionate about—spreading love and happiness—and my dream is to one day perform on its big, beautiful Main Stage!”

Angel says she is drawn to South Africa’s longest-running music festival — held annually on farm grounds near Underberg — for the experience and the opportunity to reconnect with herself and her family.

“They don’t call it the friendliest and most welcoming festival for no reason. I love going to Splashy with my family. Having my loved ones with me to share all the moments means so much to me.”

As camping is also part of the Splashy experience, Angel makes sure her tent, stretcher bed and gear are cleaned and ready ahead of time. “It is the best thing waking up to music, with a view of the mountains and a sea of tents and flags. I stay until the very last day.”

Angel recalls many good memories, including a funny one involving her brother and their father’s old van breaking down on the dirt road, and having to be rescued by festival staff.

“The important thing is that we got help and didn’t miss too much of the festival. Excitement oozes from festivalgoers – from helping each other set up tents to sharing sunscreen and swapping daily highlights around campfires with newfound friends. The joy of safe fun with good people keeps me coming back every year, not to mention the friendships I’ve built with artists. I’m always excited to watch sets by Freddy L, Tanner, The Black Lapels, Zebra, 4am, Veranda Panda, The Kickstands, emerging musicians and of course, the big acts on the main stage.”

What can fans expect from Angel at Splashy this year? ‘Something different’ she responds, with a glint in her eye.

“Usually, it’s just me and my guitar, but I’d like to add some extra spice with a small band and new music. I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but you might catch me making a guest appearance with The Black Lapels, I’ve been working closely with their lead singer, Rob Warren, performing Tracy Chapman tributes around KZN.

“The other day, someone asked me what I’d do if I had to choose another line of work. Maybe acting, maybe theatre, but honestly, I wouldn’t give up music for anything. The stage is where I always want to be.”

If you heading off to Splashy, don’t miss Angel M – the festival is on from April 17 to 21 this year.

Details: You can follow Angel on IG and Tiktok: @angelm_rsa, on FB: AngelM – RSA and YouTube: Angel Mazibuko

Angel’s Splashy playlist

“Because getting to Splashy Fen is quite a long drive, it’s important to have a good playlist to keep you going on the road. I personally love all kinds of music, but a good upbeat RnB or Pop playlist, that I can sing along to, is a must. Here’s one I’ll be blasting on my way up to the farm …”

Summertime – Shae Universe

Let Me – NNAVY, Karun, Msaki & Hendrick Sam

Rather Be Alone – Betty Brown

Farafina Mousso – Lubiana

Ubuhle Obungaka – Ovuyonke Sotsaka

Tyrone – Erykah Badu

Feels – Calvin Harris & Pharrell Williams

Gonna Be Alright – Robert Glasper & Ledisi

Into Ingawe – Sun-El Musician & Ami Faku

Ungayeki – Amanda Black & Berita