She recently celebrated her birthday bash with 16 000 guests at Zig Zag Cafe on 3 June where over 30 artists performed on her special day. This is after the release of her project, Song Is Queen. Musician, DJ, and businesswoman Dudu "Lady Du" Ngwenya says she owes her success to discipline and being business-minded.
BEHIND THE SCENES
In the short time that her career has taken off, after over a decade of being an underground artist, she has managed to buy properties, stands, cars cash, and start businesses. She shares with ZiMoja her top five secrets to making money.
1: Not about fame!
One of the life-altering decisions she made was to not focus on fame. "But rather on making money and creating different streams of income. Buying a house cash and turning it into a salon. I used the money I made through music and bought stands and turned them into businesses, for when music is not even making money."
2: Staying true to herself
Many people in the music industry feel pressured to keep up and live outside of their means. "I do everything I can to not lose myself," she says. "This is a cut-throat industry and being true to myself helps me to stay grounded."
3: Setting her priorities straight
The mom of one says, for her, it's family over everything. "Putting my family first has changed my life. It has given me purpose and made me a better person and a better artist. I am at a point where my career is moving on its own. I don't need to entertain people or try to fit in and fake my life on social media."
4: Every little cent counts
Saving money has helped her. "I save a lot. I am not about brands and a flashy lifestyle. Just being a businesswoman outside of the entertainment industry has changed my life. We have good days and bad days, it's like freelancing."
5: Staying professional
Lady Du says that she takes even the smallest of bookings seriously. "Every cent counts. I take both small and big bookings seriously and treat people with the same level of respect even If a gig is free. I believe building a good reputation will set me apart and get me more work. Being on time, being professional, and being kind."
