With the recent success of Beyoncé’s album, “Cowboy Carter,” and the emergence of artists like Nigerian American singer Shaboozey, Black country music is experiencing a resurgence. Riding this wave are Dusty & Stones, a duo from the small African nation of Eswatini.
Cousins Gazi “Dusty” Simelane and Linda “Stones” Msibi, who hail from Mooihoek, grew up working together on their grandparents’ farm before venturing into country music. Their journey might seem like a classic country band origin story, but instead of the southern United States, they found their roots in southern Africa.
Although the themes of rural America might seem distant, Dusty found a connection to the music of Donny Williams and Dolly Parton through his older brother. Their songs about small-town life resonated deeply with his own experiences. The cousins’ grandfather, a pastor who once played the harmonica, instilled in them the values of patience and hard work, qualities essential for country musicians.
“I just felt at home in this music genre,” Stones shared. Dusty & Stones’ music reflects their community and personal experiences. Their 2022 debut album, “Mooihoek Country Fever,” explores themes of family and faith.
“I have my own stories, my own experiences that I want to share with people. I find that country music allows me to express those things more effectively,” said Dusty. The duo, who play guitar and write their own songs, cater to local audiences by making their music danceable and incorporating both siSwati and English lyrics. Despite these elements, they firmly believe their music remains true to the country genre.
Their breakthrough came at a local music festival, leading to international recognition. In 2017, they became the first Africans to win the Duo of the Year award at the Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards. This win paved the way for other Eswatini artists like Cleopatra Methula, who has since won three awards at the same event. The Swazi country music scene has also grown, with new artists such as Zwelly Masuku, Sbutjas Dlamini, Cousinwhy, and Alfred Gama entering the spotlight.
In 2023, Dusty & Stones reached a new milestone when they performed at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee—a dream for many country musicians. Established in 1925, the Grand Ole Opry has hosted numerous country legends.
Dusty & Stones’ rise coincides with a pivotal moment for Black country artists, who are striving for greater recognition and acknowledgment of their contributions to the genre. Black musicians have shaped country music since its beginnings in the early 20th century, drawing from folk, blues, and gospel traditions. Pioneers like Charley Pride and Ray Charles, who released the influential album “Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music,” are just two examples of Black artists who have left their mark on the genre.
Today, Black artists from both the United States and Africa, including Willie Jones, Breland, Rvshvd, Esther Konkara, Sir Elvis, and Ogak Jay Oke, continue to contribute to country music.
Stones noted that country music has a history in Eswatini, too. They were inspired by Zombodze Dlamini, the late president of their local country music association, which has been promoting the genre through festivals and events since 2018.
Despite the significant contributions of Black country artists, many still face challenges in an industry dominated by White performers. A documentary about Dusty & Stones’ 2017 Texas Awards experience highlighted the hostility they encountered from a member of the local backing band. Many Black country artists have also shared stories of racism within the industry.
Dusty & Stones hope to see more opportunities for country artists in Eswatini and want the world to recognize that country music extends beyond America’s borders, especially in Africa, where its roots run deep.
“Country music is no longer just an American genre,” Dusty remarked. “Yes, it started there, but it’s now a global genre.”
