BUTTERWORTH- East London musician’s life story became one defined by faith, determination and an unwavering love for music, a journey that shaped him into one of the Eastern Cape’s most inspiring young artists. Born in Butterworth and raised in East London. After spending a year in Gqeberha, Sonwabile ‘Sunray’ Rwayi returned home with dreams of studying music at Nelson Mandela University.
However, his plans were derailed when his application process could not be completed. For the next three years, he found himself at a standstill.
In 2017, his family urged him to return to school a decision that changed the course of his life. He enrolled at the University of Fort Hare(UFH) where he pursued a Bachelor of Music and graduated in 2023.
“Everything I applied for in those years either went missing, was pending, or I would be told that you have been accepted, why are you not in class. Finally enrolling at Fort Hare was a blessing,” he said in an exclusive interview with Eastern Cape Daily News.
His love for music began in early childhood. “My first memory of singing was around four or five years old in creche and I was leading a song. It felt strange but, I have been surrounded by music all my life,” Rwayi recalls.
Furthermore in primary school, he sang in both the junior and senior choirs and in high school he took part in choral music. His professional journey began in 2015 when he worked as a backing vocalist for Pastor Anele Memani, who introduced him to the East London music scene and opened doors to the industry.
For Sunray, music was never just a career it was a calling. “Music is part of my purpose there are other things I’m passionate about but music is the one that stands out,” he explained.
In addition like many artists, Sunray faced challenges especially the issue of working without pay in exchange for exposure. “People would say, come and work for me, I’ll give you exposure, but exposure doesn’t pay the bills. That was the hardest part.”Over time, he learned to value his gift and set boundaries.
“I met people who had been in the industry longer and they taught me to stand my ground. They said don’t let people use you, your gift is also your business,” he said. “It’s a talent, but you also have to make a living out of it.”
Although he hadn’t yet received any awards, Rwayi remained hopeful and full of faith in his future. From leading songs as a child in creche to earning a degree in music and stepping into the professional spotlight, Rwayi’s journey stood as a powerful reminder that faith, persistence and purpose can turn life’s delays into destiny and silence into song.
For bookings he can be contacted through facebook at Sunray Rwayi or instagram @i_amsunray or you can whatsapp him on 079 518 5026.
Photographs: supplied
