BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
MANZINI– A surname can carry more than a name. For Nelly Nolls, “Mkhatshwa” carries family, identity and a connection to Entamakuphila in Siteki ideas she has now brought to life in her first official music video.
The video for Mkhatshwa takes a personal song and turns it into a visual story about where Nolls comes from, who she is and the person she is becoming.
Nolls said the song was created as a way of honouring her roots while encouraging listeners to take pride in their own stories. “For me, ‘Mkhatshwa’ is about embracing your identity, remembering your roots and carrying them with you as you grow,” she said.
That idea also shaped the video. Rather than focusing only on performance, Nolls wanted the visuals to reflect different parts of her journey, creating a balance between her beginnings and the growth that has happened since.
She hopes the video allows audiences to see beyond the artist they encounter through her music. “I hope they see me beyond just the music. I hope they understand that there is a story, a family and a history behind the artist they see,” she said.
The project was made possible after Nolls applied for the ESWACOS creative fund, which had called for applications several months ago. She was selected among the 20 recipients, giving her the opportunity to turn the song into a visual project.
The video also became a collaborative effort. Luda Films Production handled the production, while House of Dandy worked on the styling. Mabuda Guest Farm provided the location, while Nolls’ family also became part of the visuals.
For Nolls, having her family involved carried particular meaning because the song itself is rooted in family and identity. Looking back on the process, she said the project taught her to trust her ideas, take chances and appreciate the people who help bring a creative vision to life.
Mkhatshwa now marks a first for the artist as her first official music video, while also opening a chapter in which she hopes to continue telling personal and meaningful stories through her music.
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(Courtesy Pic)
