<pAward-winning musician Donald has ignited discussions within the South African music scene after offering candid advice to emerging artists on the significance of live performances.
On X, the artist cautioned aspiring musicians against depending exclusively on successful tracks, emphasizing that a robust stage presence can sustain one’s career when the initial excitement diminishes.
“Young South African artist. Please work on your live performances like your life depends on it… one day you won’t have the hottest song in the street and your live performance will carry you through,” Donald wrote.
This post quickly gained popularity, receiving support from fans and industry figures who recognized that many artists struggle with live performances. Podcaster Penuel shared his thoughts, resonating with Donald and highlighting the importance of a long-term career approach.
“Great advice 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 Studying Afrikaner artists will help a lot. They build sustainable careers, performing in churches, schools, town halls & small town festivals,” he remarked.
Others in the conversation expressed disappointment from an audience viewpoint, particularly regarding paying for performances that do not meet expectations.
One user commented, “Some artists really struggle to perform live and it’s so painful to watch, especially after paying for those tickets.”
Radio personality Sol Phenduka also contributed to the dialogue, criticizing what he sees as a rising trend where artists treat their performances as mere appearances instead of genuine shows.
“Performers these days, it’s as if they booked for an appearance. They don’t perform their songs. They MC on their songs,” Sol commented.
“Don’t ask us why ‘singalali emakhaya’. Just sing your song. We came to see you sing your song.”
Performers these days , it’s as if they booked for an appearance . They don’t perform their songs . They MC on their songs .
Don’t ask us why ” singalali emakhaya” . Just sing your song . We came to see you sing your song . https://t.co/7JlKx4V9AA
— Thandubuntu (@Solphendukaa) December 28, 2025
