The Rebirth of Moneoa

Each time we rise from the ashes of our traumas, we are reborn. We gather the lessons and steward life bravely. Those who have found meaning in the ashes, choose healing; and through that healing, find the strength to forge ahead into their season of wholeness. Moneoa discovered the path to rebirth 10 years ago when she wrote More Than You; a song that has held many up in glory as they went through trying times in their lives. This song came full circle on the 15^th of October as it lifted its writer in glory as she was reborn to her craft.

Sweet, sweet child
Close your eyes
And life will get better if you try
You don’t know the path you may go
But if you believe, in faith you’ll grow.
And no matter how they put you down
Remember your worth, you’ll come around
Don’t let them win
Don’t ever give in
Just always be strong
‘Til glory is found.

As some may recall, Moneoa took to social media in August this year and shared her story of having been in a toxic relationship that left her with next to nothing. Even so, the songstress is committed to rebuilding her life and doing what she loves most, performing. Her family, friends, and fans gathered at Leano Restaurant in support of her rebirth but also to remind her that she does not have to pick up the pieces alone.

From her first note it was evident that all were gathered to celebrate her rebirth on stage and not to mourn what was lost. The hitmaker brough positive, lighthearted energy to the stage and it was reciprocated by her audience as they belted out every song with her; thoroughly delighted to see their adored songstress back on stage doing what she loves. The songstress gave powerful and emotive performances of some of her songs along with vibrant covers of Anita Baker’s Same Ole Love and Brenda Fassie’s Promises.

A crowd favourite was Yekelela from Moneoa’s second album. The crowd took it upon themselves to give the songstress an encore and she took up a notch and created an impromptu karoke segment. Moneoa decended from the stage to the audience, handing the mic to members to sing the chorus of the song. Luckily for us, the audience was not short of talent but the irony wasn’t lost on us as hopefuls did not want to yekelela when their time was up. ‘Give it your best shot, the right ears could hear you tonight’ said the songstress and she glided from one side of the room to the other, giving hopefuls their moment in the sun. Even award winning sport broadcaster, Motshidisi Mohono, took to the mic, adding her own lyrics of encouragement to Moneoa. It was joyous and wholesome segment, Moneoa was showing up for her audience as much as they were showing up for her.

If you juxtapose Moneoa’s lyrics and recent experiences, you may just be convinced of the anti-mimesis philosophy which states that life imitates art far more than art imitates life. Looking at her discography, one would think that ten years ago the songwriter caught a glimpse of the challenges that lay ahead and wrote a manuscript of reflection and encouragement.

Sweet, sweet child
Hold your head high
‘Cause your life is worth the fight
And even though times do get tough
In the end, it’ll be alright.
And no matter how they put you down
Remember your worth, you’ll come around
Don’t let them win
Don’t ever give in
Just always be strong
‘Til glory is found.

The songstress wrapped up the show with these words:

I had never turned to my own music to seek comfort. It’s crazy to me that I wrote this song when I knew nothing about love and nothing about suffering; yet it rings so true into my life 10 years later, when I need it the most. I believe God allowed me to go through this suffering so I could understand the meaning behind my own lyrics. Just like how it touched others, He wanted it to touch me as well. I have never connected with my music more than I have in the recent couple of years. And it has given me the inspiration to write more songs and go out there and do better because I now I understand my purpose.