By Saul Molobi
South Africa’s contemporary jazz scene continues to flourish with the unmistakable voice and vision of Tshenolo Sebogodi, better known by her stage name T.S. A singer, songwriter, and qualified LLB graduate, T.S has spent over a decade honing her craft, a journey that has blossomed into two acclaimed albums and a steadily growing reputation as one of the country’s most authentic urban soul/jazz vocalists.
Her debut album, “Toro Ka Mmino” — meaning “A Dream Through Music” — marked a significant milestone in her career. Released in 2019, the album earned her a prestigious South African Music Award (SAMA26) nomination in the “Best Adult Contemporary African Album” category. The recognition cemented her as a formidable presence in the local jazz scene. “These are highlights of the journey that began in my early years,” she reflects — years that saw her cutting her teeth as the lead vocalist for Clear Cut between 2007 and 2010, performing timeless jazz standards that laid the foundation for her signature sound.
T.S’s vocal agility and versatility were refined through collaborations that crossed genres, including projects with classical musicians and working alongside legends like renowned percussionist Bossie Mahlasela. After a four-year break to complete her LLB degree, she made her much-anticipated return to the stage, reuniting with her manager and producer Mathibe Pilane, and together bringing her dream of a full-length album to life.
Torro Ka Mmino opened new doors for T.S. From gracing local jazz festivals and performing at the iconic Sun City Superbowl for Touch HD Online Radio, to prestigious appearances on television shows like “Morning Live” on SABC2 and Trends on SABC 404, her star continued to rise. Notably, she showcased her mentorship talent as a guest mentor and adjudicator at the North West Cultural Calabash, nurturing upcoming artists while sharing her own hard-earned lessons.
She further expanded her influence with performances at the Mahika-Mahikeng Music Festival and the Mapungubwe Cultural and Heritage Festival — events that celebrate not only music but South Africa’s rich cultural diversity. Her unique Jazz on the Garden initiative, launched during this period, became an annual platform for collaboration, featuring guest artists and supported by trusted partners and sponsors, with plans to expand the event across the country.
In 2019, T.S took a bold leap into the digital age by becoming part of South Africa’s first hologram performance at the Digital Summit hosted by the Department of Technology. Her trailblazing spirit saw her performing both live and as a projected avatar — a landmark moment that showcased her commitment to innovation in music. The same year, she signed a licensing and marketing deal with the legendary Gallo Record Company, further elevating her brand to reach new audiences.
Now, T.S embarks on a new chapter with her upcoming second album, “Tsogo – The Rebirth”. A spiritual exploration through music, Tsogo promises to expand on the soulful, authentic sound that has become her trademark. Two singles from the album are already available on digital platforms, with the full project set for release this November.
As her social media following grows and radio and print features multiply, T.S remains grounded in her roots, dedicated to telling her story through music that resonates deeply with her audience. “This period certainly signifies my growth and my ability to contribute as an urban soul/jazz female vocalist,” she says.
With Toro Ka Mmino still streaming and Tsogo – The Rebirth on the horizon, Tshenolo T.S Sebogodi is proof that dreams, when nurtured with talent, passion, and resilience, can indeed find their voice — and inspire others to find theirs too.
Toro Ka Mmino is available on all major digital platforms.
The new singles from “Tsogo – The Rebirth” are streaming now.
The full album releases November 2025.
Follow T.S on social media for updates on performances and new music:
Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
Catch TS on Sunday on 101.9 Chai FM in my jazz show, “Sunset Serenade”, from 17:00 to 20:00 by tuning into 101.9 FM or stream live from www.chaifm.com.