In a surprising and positive turn of events, Durban’s Gqom queen Babes Wodumo has ventured into a new musical genre following a poorly attended performance in Limpopo.
The artist, real name Bongekile Simelane, was booked for a birthday celebration at The Village Pub and Grill in Acornhoek, but the event saw a disappointingly low turnout. Rather than cancel her plans, Wodumo chose to use the extra time to collaborate with local talent, diving into the Limpopo-based music style known as Lekompo.
She worked on two new songs with local Lekompo artist Reabetswe “Reya Ray” Malebe. Wodumo explained the creative decision, stating, “I got out of my comfort zone. At the end of the day, I am an artist, and I can sing any genre I want.” She emphasized her versatility, noting her gospel roots and refusal to be limited to one sound.
Reya Ray praised Wodumo’s professionalism and adaptability, telling Sunday World, “She made do with a great situation, and we ended up merging two different genres and made some magic.” He described her transition to the Lekompo beat as “elegant and natural,” noting that she successfully incorporated her signature Gqom flow into the new style.
This creative exploration comes as Wodumo continues to promote her own versatile new album, Mabheshingo, which was released on October 24 and features collaborations with several artists, including her late husband, Mampintsha.