By Sitha Maliwa:
Eastern Cape tycoon and music heavyweight Man B Tyekana has fired back at whispers that his 11-year-old daughter’s sudden rise in the music scene is nothing more than a product of privilege and deep pockets. The flamboyant businessman insists that little Jessie – now known as Jessie Isilokazi – earned her spotlight the old-fashioned way: with raw talent.
The debate exploded after Man B “accidentally” leaked the music video for Jessie’s debut single Mama no Tata, a heartfelt tribute to her parents that has since taken over music channels and radio playlists. Within hours, social media was ablaze – some accusing the Grade Six learner of being carried by her father’s powerful industry connections, others admitting that the child’s voice carried an authenticity money simply can’t buy.
But Man B is having none of the shade. “Music is not something I would’ve chosen for my daughter,” he confessed. “I wanted her focused on books and academics. But she kept talking about this song she was writing. One day she made me sit down and listen – and honestly, I was blown away.”
According to the mogul, Jessie grew up watching artists from his stable rehearse, record and dream out loud. Still, he swears her musical ambitions were born far from boardrooms and studio deals.
“What impressed me most is that she didn’t do this because she’s Man B’s daughter. It was her idea, her decision. I never forced her,” he said, clearly a proud – if slightly nervous – father.
Jessie, whose real name is Alunamda, revealed that the song took weeks to craft and was driven purely by love.
“I wanted to do something special for my parents,” she said shyly. “I asked DJ Anonymous to make a beat for me, and I just sang from my heart. Next thing, the song was on the radio.”
Now the young star can’t walk through her school corridors without being mobbed by curious classmates.
“They crowd around me asking when I recorded it and telling me how much they love the song,” she giggled. “It’s exciting but also scary.”
Despite the sudden fame, Jessie insists she won’t trade textbooks for microphones.
“School comes first. I only go to the studio on Wednesdays after class. Music won’t stop me from learning – I want it to inspire other kids to chase their dreams and still pass their grades.”
Meanwhile, Man B used the moment to remind critics that his label, Man B Entertainment, runs a tight ship. Home to nearly fifty artists, the company enforces a strict no drugs, no alcohol policy and demands that every musician either be in school or have completed matric.
In a video that recently went viral, the mogul hosted a lavish celebration for artists who passed their exams, urging them not to depend solely on fame. “Education first, music second,” he declared to cheering youngsters – a scene that left fans wondering whether the feared boss has a softer side after all.
Love him or doubt him, one thing is certain: with Jessie Isilokazi now the newest talk of the town, the Tyekana empire has added a fresh, pint-sized star – and the industry is watching closely. – @NewsSA_Online
Follow us on our social media platforms below: