Dhahabu – The Voice Behind Afro-Art Rock

Meet Dhahabu—real name Qondea Avril Mkansi—a South African singer-songwriter, musical theatre performer, and the creative force behind a genre she calls AAR (Afro-Art Rock).

With roots in musical theatre, Dhahabu’s performances are a masterclass in theatricality and storytelling. Her sound is bold and boundary-breaking, blending Eurocentric and Afrocentric influences into a powerful new voice that defies conventional genre classifications. Drawing from her personal journey and cultural heritage, she crafts original compositions using custom-developed chords, layered vocals, and a fearless creative spirit.

Journey Through the Beyond Busking Project

This featured video follows Dhahabu’s transformative journey through the Beyond Busking Project—from her first audition to a deep dive into professional creative development.

Through the programme, she immersed herself in:

Songwriting

Vocal Training

Guitar Mastery

Musical Arrangement

Studio Production

Personal Growth & Development

Reflecting on her experience, Dhahabu describes Beyond Busking as a catalyst for growth, affirming that artistic evolution is a continuous process. “I’ve grown immensely,” she shares. Her commitment to creative exploration didn’t go unnoticed.

Vocal coach Abigail Petersen praised Dhahabu’s vocal versatility and her fearless integration of multiple styles. Producer Jonny Blundell highlighted her unique ability to blend diverse genres into a coherent, innovative musical experience.

New Music Alert: “Sherekhan” Drops 8 August 2025

Dhahabu’s upcoming single, “Sherekhan”, is a sonic journey—rooted in her signature Afro-Art Rock style and enriched by collaboration with some of South Africa’s top musicians.

Track Credits:

• All Vocals – Dhahabu
• Drums – Kevin Gibson
• Bass – Nick Williams
• Keyboards – Blake Hellaby
• Guitars – Jonny Blundell
• Rhythm Section Recording – Andrew Rawbone Viljoen
• Mixed & Mastered – Robin Walsh
• Arrangement & Production – Jonny Blundell
• Recorded at Digital Forest Studios & Rootspring Studios

Pre-save “Sherekhan” now: https://ditto.fm/sherekhan
Release Date: Friday, 08 August 2025

Acknowledgements

The Western Cape Arts Festivals extends heartfelt thanks to the mentors and creatives who guided Dhahabu’s journey through the Beyond Busking Project:

Clive Ridgway – Songwriting Mentor

Abigail Petersen – Vocal Coach

Bradley Prince – Guitar Mentor

Fatima Dike – Personal Development

Lynne Holmes – Programme Director, Beyond Busking

Filmed & Edited by: Nur Felix Films Production

Connect with Dhahabu

Stay up to date with her latest releases, performances, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram: @avril_octobersky_
Facebook: @qondea.avril

About the Beyond Busking Project

The Beyond Busking Project (2024/2025) is a flagship creative empowerment initiative by the Western Cape Arts Festivals in partnership with Ariva Arts Foundation, with support from:

• The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC)
• The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC)
• The Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP5)

This programme is dedicated to nurturing emerging South African talent through high-impact mentorship, training, and real-world performance opportunities.