Simama juggles being a medical doctor with his passion for music.
DR Sindile Simama, popularly known as Smama, hails from Gqeberha.
Not only is he a medical doctor, he’s also a passionate singer and songwriter who uses music to inspire while saving lives.
Musical beginnings
In an interview with Daily Sun, the 47-year-old medic shared his music journey.
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It all began long before he had donned a white coat.
“I’ve been involved in music all my life. I started singing in school, then formed a band while in tertiary. Later, I got into songwriting and worked with artists like Nokwazi," he said.
Now, stepping into the spotlight with his music, Smama describes his sound as Afro-soul with strong gospel undertones.
“I do Afro-soul, but deep down, gospel is my first love. Every album I release will always have, at least, one gospel track. Even in my Afro-Soul songs, there’s always a gospel influence,” he said.
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Balancing two passions
How does Smama juggle being a medical doctor with his passion for music?
“I wouldn’t say it’s about balance. It’s more about knowing what to do and when. Medicine is structured, so I know where I need to be and when. Music, on the other hand, is unpredictable. Sometimes, things pop up at the last minute, and I just have to be ready. I try to plan ahead, and when I can’t, I make sure someone covers for me at the practice," said Smama.
Despite his success in music, Smama has no plans to leave medicine.
“I get asked that a lot. I don’t think I’ll ever walk away from medicine. It’s not Plan B. It’s something I’m truly passionate about.
"Maybe, I’ll scale down in the future, but I’ll always be involved somehow. It keeps my adrenaline going, and I feel like I’m really helping people,” he said.
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Music as a beacon of hope
Smama also doesn’t want to waste years of training and dedication he’s put into becoming a doctor.
“With a skill like this, if you don’t use it, you lose it. I’ve come too far to let that happen.”
Through his music, Smama hopes to spread messages of love and hope.
“My songs are mostly about love, not only romantic love, but love in friendships, family, and community. I also want to give people hope. We’re living through tough times, and many feel hopeless.
"Music has the power to lift spirits up. That’s what I want my music to do - remind people they’re not alone and everything is possible."
When asked about his dream collaborations, he mentions two local artists.
“Locally, I’d love to work with Brenda Mtambo and Lwah Ndlunkulu. They’re different. One is younger and the older, but their voices and the kind of music they make really speaks to me," he said.
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A Tribute to Thembeka
Smama’s latest singleNdenzel'Umamawas released on 31 January.
It's a heartfelt tribute to his mum Thembeka, who raised him and his two siblings as a single parent.
Its lyrics reflect on her experiences, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication to her kids and how these have shaped Smama's life and perspective.
Whether in scrubs or on stage, Smama believes healing comes in many forms and sometimes, it's just what the doctor ordered.
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