Buhle Nhlangulela Opens Up About Life as a Backup Singer in Mzansi

Buhle Nhlangulela, a seasoned gospel vocalist from Msinga, KZN, has shared stages with some of South Africa’s gospel greats, including the late Lundi Tyamara, Vuyo Mokoena, and Ntando. Despite her impressive resume, she says life as a backup singer is far from glamorous.

The 45-year-old spoke to Daily Sun about the challenges backup singers face in the music industry. She said recognition and fair pay remain out of reach for many, despite the talent and effort involved.

“It’s hard to be a backup artist. We work more than the artists themselves but get paid less than they do. I don’t know who is to blame because we don’t know where to go. Some artists treat us better, but in most cases, it’s tough. You can rehearse the whole week for one show, and the artist gets R50 000 while you go home with just R1 000,” she explained.

Buhle said backup singers do more than provide harmonies. They contribute to shaping songs and sometimes guide the production process. “Sometimes, we are part of the production process. You’re given a line, but we have to arrange it the right way. That’s why the song comes out differently. Other times, we even direct everything,” she shared.

Her talent and dedication were recently recognised when she won a Gospel Award at the BVSM Awards at the Soweto Theatre on 26 October. “I am pleased. For me, this is only the beginning as I grow into becoming an artist. It means Mam Yvonne Chaka Chaka understands the struggle, because you might find that some people understand it, but they can’t fight it alone,” she said.

Buhle also praised Chaka Chaka for advocating for backup singers’ rights. “Artists know you can sing one line 30 times and repeat it again. We appreciate Mam Yvonne for what she did for us as backing vocalists,” she added.

Despite the hardships, Buhle remains committed to her craft and continues to push for better recognition and treatment for backup singers in the gospel music industry.