Jeqe | |
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Birth name | Sleje Ngcobo |
Born | Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa | 2 December 1983
Occupations |
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Years active | 2004–present |
Musical career | |
Genres | |
Instruments | Vocals |
Labels |
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Website | 1020cartel |
Jabulani Hadebe (born 2 December 1983),[2][3] known professionally as Sjava, is a South African singer, rapper, and actor. He began his acting career in 2005, starring in several drama series and films including uGugu no Andile (2009).[4] He then rose to prominence on the drama series Zone 14, where he starred for three consecutive seasons, Isibaya and the second season of eHostela. Sjava ventured into the music industry and signed to record label Ambitiouz Entertainment. He gained mainstream popularity after he was featured on Miss Pru's acclaimed song "Ameni" in 2015.
Sjava's debut album, Isina Muva (2016), introduced his experimental sound which fuses African pop styles, hip hop and contemporary R&B.[5] His second studio album, Umqhele, was released in 2018 to a critical acclaim. Umqhele, which continues with his fusion sound, grew his African-influenced image, and consolidated to other international regions (mainly in Africa). Before Umqhele, Sjava also released his debut EP, Umphako, in 2018.[6]
Following departure with his former label Sjava and Ruff co-founded 1020 Cartel, released his extended play Umsebenzi (2020), which was certified Gold in South Africa.
His third studio album Isibuko (2023), debuted number one and certified Platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA).