Debut album release a dream for artist Khustar

A DREAM six years in the making came true last night for Afropop artist Khustar.

Khustar, whose real name is Mkhuseli Nomkala, had the crowds dancing along to his debut album, Bubomi Sana, at a listening session at Gondwana Cafe last night.

The 12-track album was released on Monday and is available at music stores countrywide. The single Bubomi Sana was released three weeks ago and has already had airplay on radio nationally.

Khustar, of Cape Town, said last night the album – a mix of soul and Afropop – was about life and love. "I am tackling things that are happening around us, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. My aim is to encourage and inspire people who have lost hope."

Khustar started his music journey in 2006 as a member of the JL Zwane Siyaya theatre group. It was during one of his performances that he met Theo China Mpololo, chief executive of events and promotions company, Csuns Holdings.

"He introduced me to Mojalefa Thebe aka Mjakes, Robbie Malinga, Nqubeko Mbatha and Beki Nqoko," Khustar said.

Mjakes said while there were many talented people, it was not that easy to find a star. "When I first heard him I knew immediately he was a star. I have said this to a number of artists like Ntando Bangani, Zahara, Zola and Mandoza. I never go wrong."

Mpololo said they had chosen Port Elizabeth for the album launch as "we were welcomed with open hearts" for the single.