By Sbongile Sokela
Banele Sinenhlanhla Nkosi, known by his stage name Snesouls, is a rising voice in the South African music scene. At just 25 years old, he brings a deep sense of maturity and life experience to his music, creating soulful tunes that reflect both personal growth and cultural pride.
“I’m all about keepin’ it simple and lettin’ my music do the talkin’,” says Snesouls. And true to his word, his music speaks volumes. Born in Daggakraal, a small village in Mpumalanga, and now based in Tsakane, Snesouls draws heavily from his roots. The essence of his upbringing is woven into his sound, infusing it with the rhythms, energy, and spirit of African life. “My hometown has had a huge impact on my sound. The vibrant culture, the rhythms, and the energy of the people have all seeped into my music. You can hear the African vibes in my beats and melodies.”
His musical journey began in his teenage years, shaped by the powerful voices of soul legends like Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, and Otis Redding. Their timeless music ignited a spark in him. “Their music spoke to my soul, and I knew I wanted to create something similar.” As time passed, his influences expanded to include local icons like Babalwa M, Something Soweto, and Russel Zuma. “To be professional, I listen to anything amazing, ey!” he adds with a light-hearted laugh.
Snesouls’ sound is a refreshing blend of the old and the new. “My style’s all about blending the old with the new. I take inspiration from classic soul and R&B, but I also incorporate modern flavours like Amapiano and tribal rhythms. I want my music to be timeless, yet fresh and exciting.” It’s a delicate balance he strikes well, offering listeners both nostalgia and innovation.
One of his most meaningful songs to date is “Ixhesha,” featuring Benzo, Somculo Omnandi, and Omega Star Sama Poptori. The track delves into the fear of the unknown a meditation on mortality, faith, and healing. “You don’t know the exact time and date you’re going to leave everything behind and face your maker. It’s a song of healing and regaining all the energy to face the world,” he shares. “I wrote it during a tough time in my life, and it’s a reflection of my journey towards finding myself again. It’s about rising from the ashes, stronger and wiser.”
When it comes to songwriting, Snesouls places authenticity above all else. “When I’m writing, I try to be as honest and authentic as possible. I want my music to speak to people on a deeper level, so I focus on crafting melodies that are catchy, yet meaningful.” For him, music is more than just sound it’s a bridge to connection and community.
“My motto’s all about connection and community. I believe music has the power to bring people together, and to make us feel seen and heard. When I’m creating music, I’m thinking about the vibe I want to create, the emotions I want to evoke, and the connections I want to make with my listeners.”
His list of influences is as soulful as it is diverse, spanning continents and decades. “Some of my biggest influences are Aretha Franklin, Erykah Badu, and Otis Redding. They’ve all shaped my sound in different ways, from their powerful vocals to their soulful storytelling. I’ve also been influenced by African artists like Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, and Joe Nina just to name a few.”
With his focus currently on releasing singles and collaborating with other talented artists, Snesouls is steadily building his path in the music industry. He’s also hopeful about new opportunities, including a potential casting in The Lion King abroad, a dream he is keeping close while continuing to grow his craft. “I’m also looking forward to performing live and connecting with my fans in a more intimate setting. Stay tuned for updates,” he says. One thing is clear: Snesouls is an artist on the rise, and he’s doing it his way, with soul, sincerity, and a strong connection to his roots.
