Lloyd Cele invited our features writer, Boitumelo Mmakou, to join him and his wife, Janice, at the tattoo parlour where they were getting new tattoos to represent his new award at the Metro FM Awards. 
How do you feel about the award you received for Best RnB Single?
I honestly wasn’t expecting it. I had a lot of competition; I was up against great artists such as Afrotraction, Moneoa, Ayanda Jiya and Donald. I was very emotional. This means that I connected with fans, and all the votes I had asked from them went through. This isn’t my award; this one is for my supporters. After four years of being in the industry, I finally got something out if it.
What does winning the award mean for you going into the future? Will you continue to do what you do, or will you now expand and perhaps try a new genre?
I will definitely continue with the music I’m doing now; it is my passion and what I love. If anything, this award has proven to me that I need to always work hard and invest in my music – not just for me, but also for my fans.
How have you managed to keep going in the industry during the past four years, especially considering it wasn’t easy to get in?
There are different strokes for different folks. For me, my family has always been there for me, giving me the strength I need. Having the right people on your side helps you do better. My fans have also been supportive, and I thank them for being there. Having God on my side has also been a plus. 
Speaking of family, you lost your daughter at birth last year and have been very open about what happened. You now have a tattoo that will remind you of her, please tell us about this.
Yes, my daughter was stillborn. This was a sombre experience. We don’t want to forget about her. She may have not lived, but she is still a part of our family. This why I got a tattoo of her birth date – having the tattoo on my arm will always remind me of her. 
Do you think you and your wife will try for another child?
Most definitely! We may not be ready to have another child now, but we plan on having one in future. Growing up as an only child, I had always wished I had siblings, someone to talk to about girls and even to have little sibling fights with (laughs). I am happy to give my children what I didn’t have while growing up.
Do you see any of your children doing music in future?
My son is already good at the guitar, and both him and my daughters love music and enjoy dancing. Even my wife can hit a note or two.
What musical instruments can you play?
I play the saxophone, piano and guitar. However, I am far better with my guitar. I learnt to play the guitar myself. I practised at church; and after saving up to buy my own, I continued practising and asking people at church who played it to give me tips. In future, I want to learn to play the trumpet. 
Grey Matter has been making big waves since September last year, why do you think it’s such a buzz?
My album is an incorporation of isiZulu, Afrikaans and English. All my fans can relate to it. It embraces all things black and white; it fuses pop, rock and RnB,and unites people through music.
Your ebook The Dream of an Idol is a touching autobiography of your life. Do you think you will ever write another book again?
I enjoyed writing my first book and hope that it will inspire people. I would like to write another book again, maybe make it something in relation to music…We’ll see!
