Entertainment

She’s got the kind of voice that feels like a warm Sunday morning: Familiar, comforting and honest. But behind the sound is a story.

One rooted in duality, silence, and eventually, finding the courage to sing anyway.

Meet Nolwethu Mkhatshwa, known to listeners as Nelly Noll, a rising voice in Swati music who’s blending culture, soul and vulnerability into a sound that refuses to be boxed.

We caught up with the ‘Mkhatshwa’ hitmaker for a sit-down to chat music, roots, balance and what it really means to represent.

For those meeting you for the first time; who is Nolwethu Mkhatshwa, and how did Nelly Noll the artist come to life?

I’m a passionate, grounded and expressive soul. I was born and raised at eNtamakuphila, a humble community in Siteki. I’ve always been drawn to vulnerability and finding deeper meaning in both silence and sound.

Nelly Noll was born from that silence. She comes from the girl who once didn’t have a voice — a girl growing up between two very different worlds, where my names were never spoken in the same space. Merging Nolwethu and Nelisiwe to become Nelly Noll was how I united those worlds. Through music, I found the freedom to be my truest self.

Your music blends Afro Soul, RnB, and Swati traditional vibes. What inspires this fusion, and how do you define your sound?

My sound reflects who I am; it’s modern soul with deep cultural roots. Swati traditions inspire me, Afro Soul gives me emotional depth, and RnB brings the softness. I don’t believe in boxing music into genres. Our identities are layered and dynamic, so my sound is soulful storytelling wrapped in rhythm. It honours where I come from and embraces where I’m headed.

Let’s talk ‘Mkhatshwa’, your latest single. It’s clearly personal. What’s the story behind it?

‘Mkhatshwa’ is a tribute to my roots, my hometown and the people who shaped me. It’s both a celebration and a reflection. The process was emotional. I wanted every lyric and every note to carry intention. Working with producer Alex Beats and lead guitarist Ayanda Dlamini, we created a sound that’s rooted in tradition and layered with harmonies of pride, vulnerability and reverence. It’s a love letter to my family name and everything it stands for.

Looking back at ‘Deeper’ and ‘Timbali’, how do you think you’ve evolved as an artist?

I’ve grown in confidence and clarity. Those songs were steps towards finding my voice. Now I’m more intentional with my sound, more involved in every part of the process, from writing to production and promotion. I create from a place of ownership and authenticity now, always thinking about the message I want to leave behind with each song.

You’re juggling music, studying and working. Be honest, how do you do it?

It’s definitely not easy. But when you’re passionate about something, you find the time. It takes planning, sacrifice, and a strong support system. What keeps me going is the vision I have for my artistry and the belief that my story matters. Music isn’t just my passion, it’s my purpose.

You recently landed the MTN Bushfire Firefly spotlight for 2025- congrats! What was that moment like for you?

Thank you! Being selected for the Firefly spotlight was such an affirming moment. It reminded me that my work is being seen and appreciated. The platform allowed me to connect with new audiences and share my story on a bigger stage. To those who want to support, stream the music, share it, come to performances and connect with me online. Every bit of love helps grow this journey.

Which artists have shaped your sound or inspired your journey?

So many! Locally, Bholoja has been a major influence in the way he blends Swati tradition with contemporary sound is powerful. I also draw inspiration from Umzulu Phaqa, Sun-EL Musician, and of course, Sands. Each one has shown me how to honour my roots while creating fearlessly.

You often weave Swazi culture into your music. Do you feel a responsibility to represent?

Absolutely. My music is rooted in Swati identity, from the stories I tell to the rhythms I use. I stay true to who I am because I believe authenticity connects beyond borders. By blending local sounds with universal themes and using digital platforms, I make sure the world hears Eswatini in every song.

What advice do you have for young emaSwati, especially from small towns, who dream of making it in the arts?

Your background isn’t a limitation it’s your superpower. Embrace where you’re from, believe in your voice and start with what you have. Stay true to your vision, stay consistent and don’t wait for permission to create. You belong in every room your dreams lead you to.

Nelly Noll isn’t just making music, she’s carving a lane for Swati soul, one song at a time. And if Mkhatshwa is anything to go by, she’s only just getting started.

Nolwethu Mkhatshwa, known to listeners as Nelly Noll. (Pics: Courtesy)