By Doreen Mokgolo
The reggae industry in South Africa is very small, so reggae musician Carol “Dimahr” Motlhaodi is making a name for herself outside the country.
Soweto-born Dimahr has been nominated for Reggae Artist of the Year at the upcoming Basadi Music Awards.
The awards will take place on 10 August at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, to celebrate and honour women in the South African music industry.
Dimahr was nominated for Newcomer of the Year in 2023.
Her first album, The Truth, is popular in Germany and Trinidad.
Dimahr started her career as an artist manager and backing vocalist for reggae artist Botanist Meesta Lamington.
She then released her first solo single, Uptown Girl.
In an interview with Scrolla.Africa, Dimahr said the nominations show her talent is being recognised.
“This journey has not been easy as an independent Rastafarian musician, especially in South Africa where the market and support are limited. But when we perform in other countries, there is recognition and support,” she said.
Dimahr believes there is a lot of talent in the Rastafarian community in South Africa that the world needs to see and appreciate.
She uses her music to campaign for gender equality and environmental issues.
Her second album, Proof of Life, is about her personal experiences. Her father, Nelson Nkomo, a community leader during apartheid, died when the family home was set on fire.
Dimahr still bears scars from the burns she sustained. And her sister, Hopolang Nkomo, was stabbed to death by her boyfriend.
“The album is about my journey, experiences, pain, losses, and healing,” she said.
“I have been through so much, and I am just thankful to still be alive and healthy.”
Pictured above: Reggae musician Dimahr.
Source: Supplied
