Mikhalé Jones has always been a storyteller. Whether through music, movement, or the quiet moments she captures away from the spotlight, her world is built on emotion, memory, and creative expression. The singer, songwriter, and dancer first captured the attention of South African audiences through her captivating covers and later as the winner of the first season of MTN Pulse Virals. Since then, she has evolved into one of the country’s most exciting contemporary soul artists, blending R&B, neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop into a sound that is uniquely her own.
From signing with Def Jam Africa to reclaiming her artistic independence and releasing acclaimed projects such as Too Many Promises, Mikhalé’s journey has been one of growth, self-discovery, and unwavering authenticity. Beyond the music, she’s someone who finds meaning in life’s simple pleasures, from journaling and collecting jewellery to spending time in nature and with the people and animals she loves most.
We catch up with Mikhalé to find out about the things she can’t live without, the objects that inspire her creativity, and the people, places, and rituals that help keep her grounded.
A Notebook & Pen
As a songwriter, I’m still loyal to the old-school method of writing things down by hand. There’s something sacred about pen meeting paper. The funny thing is that my songwriting notebook often turns into a journal when life gets overwhelming. One page might be lyrics, the next might be a full emotional breakdown. It’s completely disorganised, but it makes perfect sense to me.
My Camera
My grandfather owned one of those giant VHS cameras that sat on your shoulder, and he documented everything. Looking back, I think I inherited that habit from him. My family rolls their eyes when I pull out a camera, but years later they’re always grateful that those moments were captured. For me, it’s never just about content creation. It’s about preserving memories, witnessing growth in real time, and having something tangible to look back on.
My Jewellery Box
Growing up, I always admired the women around me with their gold bangles, chunky rings, and dangling earrings. They seemed so confident and so grown. Now I finally have my own collection, and getting dressed still feels a little bit like playing dress-up. I genuinely feel incomplete without my jewellery.
My Makeup Table
Creating my own makeup station was a personal dream that became a reality in 2025. It’s my creative corner, filled with products, brushes, mirrors, and enough lighting to make me feel like I’m on a professional set. The best way to describe it is an arts-and-crafts table for my face. Makeup has always felt less like beauty and more like play.
My Partner
Where do I even begin? My partner is the person who reminds me to believe in myself on the days when I can’t find that belief on my own. He has been one of the biggest reasons I’ve learned to invest in myself and take my dreams seriously. He’s my voice of reason, my biggest cheerleader, and one of the gentlest souls I know.
My Animals
I genuinely believe animals communicate more than we give them credit for. I have a tuxedo cat named Feta, who’s currently on a diet because he’s become a very big boy, and two Pomeranians who couldn’t be more different. Sir Ivan, my one-eyed little gentleman, is anxious and energetic, while Sugar is clever enough to outsmart the entire household. They bring so much joy, comfort, and warmth into my life.
My JBL Speaker
I have the patience of a saint for music and almost none for television. I’ve never been someone who can sit still for hours staring at a screen. Music gives me the freedom to create, clean, drive, journal, daydream, and simply exist. More than entertainment, it helps me process emotions and regulate my nervous system.
Vida Café Hot Chocolate
At this point, I’m practically part of the furniture at my local Vida. The team already knows my order depending on the weather, which is both impressive and slightly concerning. Whether it’s a hot chocolate in winter or a chocolate peanut butter drink in summer, it’s one of my simplest pleasures.
My Yoga Mat & Candles
I’m a deep feeler and a chronic overthinker, so staying grounded is essential. Lighting a candle and spending time on my yoga mat, especially outdoors, helps me come back to the present moment. It’s a simple ritual, but one that reminds me to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with myself.
Nature
Nature is my reset button. Whenever life feels loud, busy, or overwhelming, being outdoors brings me back to myself. Away from the city, surrounded by open skies and fresh air, everything becomes clearer. Nature reminds me that growth doesn’t have to be rushed. Everything unfolds in its own time, and so do we.
