With an early affinity for music that blossomed in the sacred halls of a church choir, Neo Dube discovered her artistic voice amid the melodies and harmonies shared within her community.
Image: Neo Dube Instagram
The 2025 Metro FM Awards celebrated a vibrant tapestry of South African talent, but one name rose above the rest: Neo Dube, who clinched the coveted title of Best New Artist.
Born in Umlazi, Dube’s journey from humble beginnings to chart-topping success has been as inspiring as her soulful music.
With an early affinity for music that blossomed in the sacred halls of a church choir, Dube discovered her artistic voice amid the melodies and harmonies shared within her community.
Today, she is living her dream - a dream fuelled by a passion for storytelling that transcends mere entertainment.
In a recent conversation, Dube shared her insights on her journey, musical influences, and her hopes for the future.
Below are ten thought-provoking questions that reveal the essence of this burgeoning star:
What inspired you to start your music career?
I was inspired by a deep need to tell stories, my own and those of the people and spaces that shaped me. Music became a natural extension of how I express emotion, document memory, and process life.
Can you describe your songwriting process?
It often starts with a feeling, a conversation, a prayer, or even silence. From there, I build melodies and lyrics that reflect that emotional truth. Sometimes a visual or scene will guide the structure, almost like scoring a film.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
I draw from artists like Thandiswa Mazwai, Jill Scott, Jazmine Sullivan, NAO, Busi Mhlongo, and Sjava - musicians who make you feel every word. But I’m also influenced by film composers and gospel storytellers who understand mood, pace, and atmosphere.
How do you feel about winning Best New Artist?
I feel incredibly honoured and grateful. There’s a surreal joy in being seen in this way. Of course, there’s a bit of pressure, but it’s the kind that encourages growth, that pushes me to go deeper and remain authentic in my journey.
What themes do you explore in your music?
Belonging, healing, memory, love, and faith. I try to write songs that feel like home, whether it’s a place, a person, or a spiritual refuge. These themes return to me again and again because they’re central to how I live and create.
What has been your most memorable performance so far?
Performing in Spain, the Canary Islands was unforgettable. There was something sacred about it, the energy in the spaces, the way the audience received every word. It felt like everything aligned in those moments.
How do you define success?
Success, for me, is creating with integrity, impacting even one person deeply, and building a body of work that reflects truth. It’s also being able to sustain my craft while staying grounded in who I am.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists?
Honour your voice and trust your timeline. Not everything that’s fast is fruitful. Invest in your craft, know the business side, and surround yourself with people who believe in your vision as much as you do.
What are you currently working on?
I’m working on my debut EP and developing a short music film that brings the songs to life visually. I’m also curating an intimate performance series that blends music, storytelling, and film.
Lastly, where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself touring internationally, running a creative studio that bridges music and film, and mentoring young artists. Most importantly, I hope I’m still creating from a place of truth and still in love with the work.