Poetry for the Soul
A former NMMU law graduate traded in their law gown and a court room for a microphone and stage. Lelethu Mahambehlala, whose poetry fans know her as “PoeticSoul,” caused a poetic uproar in front of hundreds at the NMMU South Campus auditorium. PoeticSoul’s lyrical poetry CD, titled Lelethu (It Is Ours), was launched on 8 August this year – perfect timing for Women’s Day.
The evening was filled with joy, inspiration and dance as she recited poetry from her album, and the audience joined in to the lyrics of the singers and the rhythm of the band.
PoeticSoul, who has been reciting her poetry for 12 years, teaches and inspires young poets, of which three opened for her on Saturday night. Mahambehlala herself has opened for Lebo Mashile, Judith Sephuma, and music icon, Sibongile Khumalo, among many others. “It was about time I had my own show,” expressed Mahambehlala. “It was mine and no one could take that away from me.”
PoeticSoul also performed at the NMMU Missionvale campus on the 14 August. “This is a very busy month in terms of performances,” shared Mahambehlala. PoeticSoul will be performing at the East London Standup Poetry Show at the end of the month. She and the band will then be touring East London again in September.
The Lelethu (It Is Ours) album does not stick to one genre. “I would describe my album and my work as lyrical.” PoeticSoul’s poetry varies from the inspirational and emotional poem, Steve Biko, to the fun and oh-so-cute, I Want To Climb a Tree – a definite crowd favourite.
Lelethu (It Is Ours) can be preordered from poeticsoul0121@gmail.com at R150 a CD. Poetry fans can keep up with PoeticSoul on her Facebook profile, PoeticSoul Mahambehlala, and also check out her page, PoeticSoul.