On December 31, 2024, legendary South African musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka, affectionately known as the “Princess of Africa,” sat down with Kafui Dey in Accra for a heartfelt interview that delved into her inspiring journey, her legacy, and her deep love for African culture and music.
The Journey of a Music Icon
Yvonne revealed that her path to stardom was unexpected. Born Yvonne Machaka, she had dreams of becoming an accountant, while her mother hoped she would become a lawyer. However, fate intervened when she reluctantly auditioned for a record producer at the age of 19, singing “Let It Be” by The Beatles. The producer’s immediate reaction, “I’ve found my girl!” set the stage for a career that would span decades.
Her first hit, “I’m in Love with the DJ,” skyrocketed her to fame, but the road was not without challenges. Growing up in a not-so-privileged family, Yvonne lost her father at age nine and faced hardships that included squatting with her mother’s employer. Despite these struggles, her talent and determination propelled her to become one of Africa’s most beloved artists.
The Birth of the “Princess of Africa”
Yvonne shared that the title “Princess of Africa” was bestowed upon her by the people of Uganda, a recognition of her contributions to African music and culture. She humbly attributed her success to the people she worked with, who understood how to create songs that resonated deeply with audiences.
Musical Inspirations and African Unity
The singer highlighted the influence of African music legends such as Osibisa, Kojo Antwi, Baaba Maal, and Salif Keita on her career. She also expressed admiration for contemporary artists like Wiyaala, whom she described as “fierce,” and Becca. Yvonne noted how music unites Africa, emphasizing the rise of genres like Amapiano, which she praised for its simplicity and global appeal.
A Life of Celebration and Resilience
As she approaches her 60th birthday in 2025, Yvonne is planning to celebrate the entire year. Reflecting on her legacy, she recounted memorable moments, including performing at massive stadiums during apartheid-era South Africa under the watchful eyes of police, and the overwhelming energy of fans in Botswana who kept her singing through the night.
Despite initial doubts about the longevity of her career, Yvonne has continued to evolve, exploring ventures in the culinary and hair industries, and serving on various boards. She remains grateful for the opportunities her career has afforded her.
Ghanaian Connections and Future Aspirations
Yvonne expressed her admiration for Ghana, describing Ghanaians as “the best fashion icons” and praising their warmth and hospitality. She confessed a love for Ghanaian cuisine, particularly the “black sauce.” If given the chance, she would love to live in Ghana and Rwanda for a year.
Looking Ahead
As she prepares for the next chapter of her life, Yvonne is excited about the future of African music. She recently collaborated with Highly Spiritual on a remix of her classic “Makothi” and celebrated the growing trend of South African musicians working with artists worldwide.
Yvonne Chaka Chaka’s visit to Accra was a testament to her enduring influence, not just as a musician, but as a cultural ambassador for Africa. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to celebrating and uniting the continent through music.
