Local musician, Siyasanga “Dol Pop” Koyo, grew up wanting to become a nurse, but music had other plans for her. Koyo’s musical gift was first discovered at her local church as a wide-eyed seven-year-old.
She joined an a capella trio where she sang tenor; then later joined another group, Vocal Blend, where her talent blossomed. She grew vocally and musically with the group that later released two albums: Ngoban’ aba in 2005, and Gam’ elihle in 2009.
After a few years of travelling the country with Vocal Blend, hosting concerts and honouring different invitations, Koyo became exposed to other genres, stepping out of her comfort zone and exploring other avenues.
Over the years her talent has given her the opportunity to work with the likes of Vusi Nova, Nathi Mankayi, Phutuma Tiso, Amanda Black, Dumza Maswana, Nomfundo Xaluva, Siya Mdebele, Lubabalo Luzipho, Nosisi Mavela, Lefa Mosea and her late husband, Bulelani Koyo.
More recently, Koyo had the honour of sharing a stage with the legendary Loyiso Bala.
“He was actually running a competition on social media looking for a backing vocalist and someone to duet some songs with. I usually try to stay away from competitions, they’re just a lot for me, but so many people kept tagging me in his post and I eventually gave in,” she recalls.
After a short while, Koyo received a direct message from the Bala brother himself, letting her know that he had chosen her.
“It was such an honour; he is so hardworking and humble. And the faith he had in me was incredibly humbling; because of his busy schedule, we could not meet for rehearsals, but he sent me the songs and I kid you not, the first time he actually heard my voice was on stage,” she laughed.
One of the many perks Koyo is grateful for are the relationships she’s been able to form with the great artistes she’s worked with, including South African Afro-soul songstress, Siphokazi, who she says has become an older sister, prayer and partner and general support to her.
“I believe nothing beats doing what you love, especially if you end up making a living from it. I might have wanted to be a nurse, but music was always right next to that passion. Being on stage for me really ignites something in me that even I cannot explain,” she said.
Having a career in the music industry can be a financial challenge, and to artists who are still trying to make it, Koyo gives the advice that, “if you can, have another job as well, just to relieve that financial burden and ease the burden,”
“Also, even when you’re confronted with moments of struggle, don’t dwell on that. Get up, dress up and show up! And never forget to pray,” Koyo concluded.
