“John Vuli Gate” Makers Mapara A Jazz Go Broke: Forced to Relocate After Career Decline
Mapara A Jazz duo Mano Nephawe and Leornard Malatji who once gave South Africa the hit song John Vuli Gate for the 2020 festive season, are broke and struggling to make ends meet. The duo is no longer in demand as they used to be at the height of their careers and are finding it difficult to secure bookings.
The duo’s change in fortunes has forced them to relocate from Midrand Johannesburg to Phelindaba in North West.
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“John Vuli Gate” Makers Mapara A Jazz Go Broke
A friend close to the duo revealed that while Mapara A Jazz did not blow their money, they are no longer in demand as they used to be when John Vuli Gate was in heavy rotation.
“Times are tough for the gents. They get bookings here and there from friends who know them from John Vuli Gate days. But things have changed. They were not irresponsible with their money but their star just faded. The music industry has a shelf life when you are not relevant, but it doesn’t mean you are not talented, they had their time and maybe they will come back. Who knows? but also the rise was instant and quick, you know what they say about easy come…” the friend said.
The two are said to be still working with Open Mic Productions although its complicated since big names such as Makhadzi, Master KG, AirBurn Sounds and many others have left the recording label.
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Mano Addresses the Move and Struggles
When asked about their situation, Mano downplayed the significance of moving back home from the plush suburbs of Johannesburg, saying it’s part of the journey.
“Moving back home doesn’t make you a failure. We are still performing here and there – yes things are not the same but we are pushing and still doing what we love. It’s not easy, but we are fighters,” Mano said.