TK not in the UK

2002-04-21 17:49

Welcome Skosana

Johannesburg - R&B sensation and current South African Music Awards (Sama) nominee Tsakane Mhinga aka TK was reported to be heading for the UK a few weeks ago to fulfil her dream of becoming an international superstar.

However, she is still roaming the streets of Johannesburg and this has fuelled speculation about the status of her much-talked-about recording deal in the UK.

Earlier in the year Mhinga was said to have signed a seven-album multi-million rand deal with Polydor, a stable that boasts international superstars like Westlife, Samantha Mumba and Sugarbabes.

Her future now looks uncertain as the deal seems to be just the stuff dreams are made of and nothing more substantial.

The music industry is abuzz with claims that reports of TK flying to the UK may have been a publicity stunt.

But Polydor did sign the 23-year-old star in November after hearing her sizzling debut CD entitled TKO.

She was expected to work with prolific British producer Craig Dodds, who produced UK star Gabriella's new album.

Mhinga's new album Tsakani has been released by new label Electro Mode Music.

Eddie Jenner, financial director for Electro Mode Music, said the UK deal was still being negotiated.

Insiders in the industry say the new album is not as good as the first one.

"We've been negotiating for over a year now. We want the best deal. Nothing has been finalised yet. We are trying to come up with the best contract for her," he said.

"TK did go to London earlier in the year to promote the album. It's not true that she is not ready to venture into the international market. I believe the new album has potential. It has clinched the number two spot on the 5 FM charts," Jenner said.

Mhinga declined to comment on recent speculations about the UK deal. She said she was focusing on promoting the new album.

- City Press