Nokukhanya dlamini biography

THE story goes that when Nokukhanya Dlamini wanted to be booked for a performance, a promoter once cockily wanted to know what her claim to fame was.

It was one of those bizarre enquiries, triggered when Nokukhanya was attempting to persuade a music promoter to book the former Joyous Celebration lead singer for a show or two.

Perhaps the minor sound problems in 2001 at the launch of her debut gospel album, Uyinkosi Yami, were subtle hints that the journey ahead might not be all smooth sailing for the then 23-year-old.

In the 11-year stretch of her solo career she has only had limited opportunities to perform at public shows.

Still, it would be erroneous to suggest Nokukhanya has had a long roller-coaster ride characterised by doom and gloom.

The mother of one, a son, has been working constantly as a backing and session singer.

She has been counted among a few artists who have been lucky to benefit from her vocal talent and forever beaming face