OFTEN described as a legend, Thebe Mogane (41) prefers to see himself as just an ordinary guy.
“I don’t see myself as a celebrity,” he said.
“I feel humbled when I meet people and they greet me with excitement.”
With 20 years in the music business under his belt, his 13th album The Legend was released in November.
Thebe said the secret of his success is never to change his identity.
“When you are an artist your fans have ways of identifying you.
“If you surprise them with a lot of changes they get lost,” he said.
“Music is changing all the time but I am proud I am still appreciated and can work well with new artists.”
And in line with his industry profile, he has also kept his private life peaceful.
“I live in the Vaal Triangle with my wife Dioca and our two children because I want a quiet place to raise a family,” he explained.
Thebe and Dioca have been married for 13 years.
He has been with the Kalawa Jazzmee stable since he started singing in 1995.
“Kalawa is my second home. We are all family there,” said the star.
Most of his time is taken up by his work and his family, but when he relaxes he goes to the river.
“When I need to enjoy myself I go water skiing, riding in my boat or do some other kind of water sport,” he said.
When Thebe goes out he drinks vodka and he always looks good, although he doesn’t believe it takes expensive clothes to make an impression.
“I buy reasonable clothes. I have to look good and I want to be comfortable,” he said.
He said having his album nominated for this year’s Metro FM Awards made him feel good. “I only got nominated once for the Samas some years ago and now I’m just happy to be recognised,” he added.
The kwaito singer encouraged the youth to do their best and never give up their dreams.
