Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
THE journey from commanding a defence on a football field to creating hit songs in a studio sounds like something out of a film. But for South African producer BlaQ Major, it is simply his life. His story is one of talent, hard work and a strong desire to help others succeed as he climbs to the top.
Fresh from a major achievement, BlaQ Major is still taking it all in. His hit song Sdakiwe Sbali was crowned Song of the Year on Gagasi FM for 2024 – a moment that confirmed his place among the industry’s best.
Yet instead of slowing down, he is already looking ahead. His focus has now stretched beyond South Africa, as he builds exciting cross-border links with Zimbabwean artistes, including Bulawayo singer Liora Music and rapper Jaycee Rapaddict from Filabusi in Matabeleland South.
Before the fame, BlaQ Major – born Thamsanqa Mpanza – had very different dreams. He was once a promising footballer who played for the Lamontville Golden Arrows Reserves. He dreamed of making it into the senior team, but that chance never came.
“Music has always been my first love,” he reflected.
That love began at home under modest conditions. Raised by his mother in a single-parent household, he grew up listening to Maskandi music, which she loved. At first, she struggled to understand the modern electronic beats he was creating.
Even when he chose music fully, success did not come quickly. For years, he worked as a resident producer, helping to make songs without receiving any proper credit. It was during this difficult time that he created the name “BlaQMajor”. It was more than just a stage name. It was his statement of purpose – “BlaQ” to promote black excellence, and “Major” to reflect his determination to be the best.
His fortunes changed when he caught the attention of internationally recognised Afro-house star DJ Master KG.
“It’s not everyone who can spot talent and want to support it. When Master KG saw what I was capable of, he was not intimidated. He saw there’s also space for me in the industry, so I will forever be grateful to him,” BlaQ Major said.
That moment opened doors, but it also shaped his character. Now, BlaQ Major is committed to giving others the same opportunity he received. This is what led him to work with Liora Music and Jaycee Rapaddict.
“Working with Liora Music and Jaycee Rapaddict was incredibly easy because they are just exceptionally gifted, raw talents. They bring an authentic Zimbabwean flavour that blends beautifully with my sound. When you put genuinely talented people in a room, you don’t need to force the chemistry — it just flows naturally.”
His connection with 18-year-old Liora Music began in a very modern way – through TikTok. While scrolling through the platform, he came across her debut song Ngathemba Wena and was instantly impressed by her voice. He reached out, and the two quickly started working together.
Liora was equally inspired when she heard the beat he sent her. It led to their lively new song Othandweni kuyaphileka, which is already gaining attention online.
Speaking to Saturday Leisure, Liora spoke warmly about the experience.
“It was amazing because Blaq Major is such a humble person. The outcome of the final piece was incredible. He is truly a lovely person to work with.”
What stood out most for BlaQ Major was Liora’s dedication beyond music. While many young people her age are focused only on school, she is balancing her studies with her growing music career.
“Master KG gave me a chance and I also want to give young artistes a chance to shine. So, I have been talking to Liora Music, giving her advice on the music business. What I love the most about her is that she holds education in high regard, something which should be commended if one is to make it in life,” said BlaQ Major.
Liora is now preparing to release her debut EP, Imizwa Nothando (Feelings and Love), later this year. As expected, it will focus strongly on themes of love.
That theme is something BlaQ Major understands well. One of his favourite songs he has worked on is Dali, featuring Bless The Gentleman and DJ Kap.
“People resonate easily with the subject of love. Whether you are in South Africa, Zimbabwe, or anywhere else in the world, heartbreak and romance are universal languages. It’s the easiest way to connect directly with a listener’s soul,” he said.
Behind his success is a relentless work ethic. BlaQ Major describes his routine as working “eight days a week”, spending long nights in the studio to perfect his sound and stay ahead.
He has also built a strong bond with Zimbabwean fans. He fondly remembers performing in Mawabeni last year.
“The energy in Mawabeni was absolutely electric. The crowd didn’t just consume the music; they lived it. The love, the hospitality, and the sheer vibe I felt on that stage proved to me that music truly knows no borders. I’ve been itching to go back ever since.”
When he does take a break, he prefers to unwind by watching intense television series. But his passion for music always pulls him back to the studio.
Looking ahead, BlaQ Major says he is eager to continue working with Zimbabwean talent.
“I am entirely open to working with more young Zimbabwean talent. The country is a goldmine of voices and stories.
But my condition is simple: you must be exceptionally talented, and you must be willing to put in the hard yards. Success isn’t given; it’s earned in the studio,” BlaQ Major said.
