Emerging local singer-songwriter Lolly Cibini is carving out a unique space in the music scene with a sound that blends soul, R&B and jazz. Best known for unplugged sessions with her live band, Cibini’s journey has been defined by growth, hard work and purpose driven music.
Her musical journey began at a young age, inspired by global icon Beyoncé, whose performances she would often mimic. But what started as admiration soon evolved into something more meaningful. “I feel a sense of completeness and belonging when I sing,” she says. “Once I realised what music does for me, I started to wonder what it could do for others, that’s when I decided to pursue it seriously.”
Cibini notes that she doesn’t sing to please herself anymore but looks for ways to heal, encourage, and inspire others through sound. “I believe music is a strong vessel to reach people, which is something I never really thought of before. I have always focused on sounding perfect, but it turns out that’s not the goal for me.” Her journey has not been without challenges. Like many artists, Cibini admits to facing moments of self-doubt, lack of motivation, and setbacks when organising performances due to miscommunication. “I have encountered failures in making a show happen because of miscommunication and working with people who were not there for the right reasons,” she says.
However, these experiences have shaped her resilience, teaching her to be patient, persistent, and to always remember why she started. At the same time, her sound is deeply influenced by her hometown, which she describes as a blend of simplicity and fast-paced living – a contrast that has helped shape her unique musical identity.
Looking ahead, she plans to work towards refining her sound and bringing her vision to life through a live event she hopes to host at the Central University of Technology. Titled “Worship Under the Stars,” the unplugged experience aims to bring people together through music in an intimate, soulful setting.
Refilwe Molekane
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