Former House of Zwide star Shalate Sekhabi turns her focus to music

After her exit from House of Zwide in July, the TV show that made her a household name, Shalate Sekhabi will now focus on her music career with the release of her new EP Xa Ungekho.

The 25-year-old artist unpacks to Sowetan her new era. 

Are you done with acting?

I’m trying to find the balance between both worlds. Though I started as a musician, House of Zwide gave me a huge platform and an opportunity to expand my music audience, which is what I’m trying to do now.

I want to bridge the gap and grow. I’m an artist and that encompasses both music and acting. When one slows down, the other picks up.

What's the difference between recording music in a studio and acting on set?

I started recording music when I was 16, so it’s nothing new to me. The difference that I like is that music is on my own terms – it’s my storytelling and my expression. Being on set is about bringing someone else’s vision, through a script, to life. Both are rewarding and fun, so I’ll always love and do both.

How would you describe your sound?

My music is raw and full of emotion. It’s R&B and always based on real feelings and experiences. I want the listener to feel heard. Sometimes you go through things and don’t know you’re not alone in them – my music is my way of expressing my innermost feelings and I hope listeners can use it as an outlet as well.

Issued on SowetanLIVE by Masego Seemla | https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/s-mag/culture/2025-09-25-former-house-of-zwide-star-shalate-sekhabi-turns-her-focus-to-music/