MCEBO AND MLUNGISI FIND THEIR RHYTHM AT NTJILO NTJILO

BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA

MANZINI – Mcebo Dlamini and Mlungisi Hlatjwako walked away with third place in the duet category at the Ntjilo Ntjilo Arts Festival on Sunday, capping a performance built on weeks of rehearsal and growing chemistry between the two singers.

Taking to the stage at the University of Eswatini Sports Emporium, the pair brought together two voices they had carefully worked to blend, with their preparation centred on finding a piece that suited them both.

Speaking on behalf of the duo, Mcebo said the performance gave them an opportunity to put their preparation into practice without getting caught up in the pressure of the results. “I would describe the performance as a reflection of the hard work we had put in during rehearsals,” he said.

Their rehearsals moved from individual practice to working as a pair, allowing them to understand each other’s strengths and find a balance between their voices. “We focused not only on getting the notes right but also on expression, timing and stage presence,” Mcebo said.

That connection became particularly important on stage, where the singers relied on listening and communication to keep their timing, dynamics and vocal balance in place.

When their names were called for third place, the moment brought satisfaction for the duo after the effort invested in preparing for the competition. “We were humbled because there was a lot of hard work behind that performance,” Mcebo said.

The result has also given the two performers a clearer idea of where they can grow. Mcebo said they hope to improve their vocal control, dynamics and stage presence as they continue performing together.

For now, third place gives Mcebo and Mlungisi something to build on. Their Ntjilo Ntjilo experience has strengthened their partnership while giving them another opportunity to measure themselves against fellow performers. The duo hopes to carry that experience into future performances and take on bigger challenges together.