Time to celebrate: Toya Delazy's eight years in the UK
"I feel like I started my music career back from scratch when I decided to move from South Africa to London."
It's been eight years since Toya Delazy left South Africa to pursue a music career abroad. The 'My City' singer, who was born in KwaZulu-Natal, moved to London after parting ways with her record label.
She began performing as an independent artist and is reaping the benefits of her hard work.
"As I celebrate my 8th year in the UK, I am absolutely buzzing to announce I have just signed to @earthAgency with Naomi Palmer as my agent for all bookings going forward! For those who know me, this journey has been an absolute roller-coaster ride," she wrote.
ALSO READ: WATCH: #ProudlySouthAfrican music from Toya Delazy hits England
Earth Agency is a global music agency that was launched in 2014. It represents "exciting and interesting independent artists who sit outside the mainstream channels".
Toya says reaching this point in her career is a testament that obsessing over your dreams pays off.
"I feel like I started my music career back from scratch when I decided to move from South Africa to London with my wife, and one of my wildest dreams was always to travel the world touring, creating shows that are memorable and bringing people together."
She says being an indie artist has taught her resilience, determination, and the power of never giving up on your dreams.
"I am grateful for every challenge and setback, rejection really is protection, the grind only made me stronger and more determined to bring you my best self," she wrote.
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https://www.ecr.co.za/music/black-coffee-fill-madison-square-gardens-nyc/
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Toya, whose real name is Latoya Nontokozo Buthelezi, was recently in South Africa for her grandfather Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi's funeral.
The UK has been good to Toya. Not only is her music career soaring to new heights, but her personal life is thriving as well.
She lives in London with her wife, Alisson 'Ally' Chaig, and their one-year-old daughter Kali.
"I am so lucky that I get to raise this gorgeous princess, Kali alongside my loving wife. She has taught me so much in a year," she wrote on Instagram about her little family in May.
ALSO READ: Toya Delazy celebrates one year of being a mom
Toya bought her first apartment in the city in 2021, making 'The Big Smoke' her permanent home.
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Main image credit: Instagram/@toyadelazy
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