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The boundaries that once separated nations and their traditions are becoming less pronounced. This sentiment was echoed by talented Eswatini musician Young Zesh, who recently returned from a performance in Taiwan.
In an exclusive interview, he shared his experiences and insights, revealing that he perceives minimal cultural differences between Eswatini and Taiwan, a perspective that challenges preconceived notions about distant cultures.
Young Zesh, known for his hit song ‘KaKhoza,’ has been making waves in the music industry, not only in Eswatini but also on international stages. His recent trip to Taiwan marked a significant milestone in his career, as he represented his homeland on a global platform.
“There is not much difference as they also safeguard their culture,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation. With a playful tone, he added, “The only difference might be that they eat things we are not familiar with,” highlighting the humorous aspects of cultural diversity.
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Young Zesh understood the weight of his role as an ambassador for Eswatini. “I gave my best, as I even did traditional dances including ‘Ingadla’,” he revealed, showcasing his commitment to sharing his heritage with an international audience.
His performance was not merely a display of talent; it was a celebration of Eswatini culture, a bridge connecting two seemingly disparate worlds through the universal language of music.
The musician’s journey to Taiwan was not just about performing; it was also about building relationships. He spoke about his efforts to curate connections with event organizers in Taiwan, expressing his enthusiasm for the possibility of an Asian tour.
“I would love to do Taiwan and China, among others. I have noticed that there are fewer artists in Taiwan, and I have met them,” he explained, recognizing the potential for collaboration and cultural exchange.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of his trip was witnessing the enthusiasm of the Taiwanese audience for Eswatini’s music and culture. “The Taiwanese fell in love with Eswatini music and culture as they also tried to dance along and imitate Eswatini dance,” he recounted.
Young Zesh also shared a personal anecdote about his first experience boarding a plane, a moment filled with both excitement and trepidation.
“I won’t lie; I was so scared. Being on a plane for the first time, and going to Asia, which is so far, was something special,” he admitted. This vulnerability adds a relatable dimension to his story, as many can empathise with the mix of fear and exhilaration that comes with venturing into the unknown.
The support he received from fellow emaSwati living in Taiwan further underscored the sense of community and solidarity that transcends borders.
“I was so happy to see emaSwati living in Taiwan at that show. They did not even negotiate entry to the show. They just paid to support me,” he said, illustrating the deep-rooted connections that bind individuals to their homeland, regardless of where they are in the world.
This sense of unity is vital for artists like Young Zesh, who rely on the support of their communities to thrive in the competitive music industry.
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Looking ahead, Young Zesh expressed his aspirations to perform in more countries, with a particular focus on Asia, followed by Europe, and eventually returning to Africa. “For now, I will focus on Asia, then Europe, then back home in Africa,” he stated, outlining a roadmap for his international career.
In his closing remarks, Young Zesh emphasized the importance of authenticity in international performances. “The best thing you can do when performing internationally is being yourself and giving your all, not trying to be a person you are not,” he advised.
