Big Zulu, known for his passionate lyrics, spoke candidly about the necessity of being a present father in a poignant interview.
Reflecting on his personal experiences growing up without his father, Big Zulu discussed how his father’s absence had a significant impact on him and his upbringing.
Raised by his grandmother because his mother worked in Johannesburg, the artist grew up with a tremendous love for family and a strong yearning to reconnect with his father.
Big Zulu confessed in an interview with David Mashabela for the King David Studio podcast that he frequently wondered how his life would have been different if his father had been around.
“Life was so difficult growing up in a village and seeing my dreams fade away. It was painful to a point where I would think that if he was still around, things would be different,” said the artist.
However, despite the challenges he faced growing up without a father figure, he recalled how his father always fought for him and supported him, even after his parents separated. It was this memory of his father’s love and dedication that inspired Big Zulu to become a present father himself.
“One thing I remember about my father is that he loved me very much. Even after he and my mom got separated, he always came to check up on me, buying us matching clothes,” he said.
Through his own experiences, Big Zulu said he learned that being a present father allows you to see first-hand the impact of your actions have on your children. It gives you the opportunity to nurture and support them, to teach them valuable life lessons, and to be a role model for them to look up to.
“By being present in their lives, fathers can shape their children’s values, and behaviours and help guide them towards a positive path in life,” he said.
