Tell us about your music. How did you develop your sound?

My music is soul, R&B and hip-hop. I’m obsessed with love songs and exaggerated emotions. My music is confessional, it comes straight from the heart. I’ve been writing songs for as long as I can remember, and have always been obsessed with interesting sounds, so my style has been evolving since childhood. My Dad always used to play a lot of soul music, and I definitely think that’s contributed to way I write music. I like to pay homage to the “old”, bringing those elements into the digital era. 

What’s your greatest source of inspiration for making music?

I write about my life experiences. I get inspired by moments and feelings and I turn them into relatable narratives, often with a cheeky spin. Love and lust are my biggest inspirations, sometimes my low moments too, but I always try to keep things positive. Sometimes my music is about how I want to feel, and who I want to be. At the end of the day, music is just my favourite form of self-expression and story-telling. 

What can punters expect from a Ms. Thandi live show?

You can expect an inclusive environment, somewhere you can get in touch with your sensuality, dance freely and enjoy listening to music that makes you feel alive. Also some jokes in between songs because I think I’m funny.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given and who was it from?

Some advice I’ve always valued comes from my parents, they always remind me how important it is to surround yourself with people who are positive, inspiring, and don’t bring you down, because at the end of the day you become who you surround yourself with. 

What Australian track would you play to cheer up someone who was crying?

I would have to say ‘Be The Love’ by Adrian Eagle - a big role model to me. It is such a joyful song and always lifts my spirits when I hear it. It’s the perfect reminder to always be the love in your life, even through the difficulties we experience.

What Australian track would you play to someone to make them cry?

I would play ‘Wiyathul’ by Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu. It’s such a beautiful, iconic song, and always gives me goosebumps. 

You’re the DJ at a party. The dance floor is pumping. What Australian track do you put on next?

This was a no-brainer for me, I’d play ’24k’ by my fellow Zimbabwean sis Tkay Maidza. Absolute banger. I’ve been bumping it since I’ve heard it. She’s a huge inspiration!

What was the last local gig you went to? How was it?

The last gig I was at was one I supported - Bread Club at Mary’s Underground last month. It was fabulous. I’m unbelievably happy that venues are starting to open up again. Live music is everything! 

Tell us about the bands or people in the local music community that inspire you.

In the local music community, I’m most inspired by all my fellow young women of colour who are simply killing it and really transforming the Australian music scene. Boss women. GLO, Maina Doe, RISSA, Becca Hatch, Lara Andallo, Saskia, Billymaree, A.Girl, Maya Hirasedo, Liyah Knight… to name a few!

What are your plans for the rest of 2020?

I’m a BIGSOUND50 artist this year so that’s super exciting. There’s also more gigs on the way - I’ll be playing at a Young Henry’s event on November 13th at The Bank in Newtown. I’m working on an EP at the moment so there’s more music and visuals on the way… but I won’t give too much away ;)