Thully Duze

Winile Nxusa, professionally known as Thully Duze, was born on 29 January 1966 in Emsinga, Kwa-Majozi, KwaZulu-Natal, to Sizakele Sibisi and Mzikayise Duze. Raised in a culturally rich environment, she developed a deep appreciation for the arts from an early age. She began her education at Douglass Primary School and later attended Maweni High School, where her passion for music first emerged.

In search of better employment opportunities, Winile relocated to Johannesburg, Gauteng. She initially worked at Masana Hygiene Services and later joined Servest Hygiene Services as a cleaner after the completion of a construction project. Despite her daily responsibilities, her passion for music remained unwavering.

Her musical journey was influenced by renowned groups such as Soul Brothers and Witness of God. In 1995, she co-founded the gospel group Douglass Messengers of God with her late brother, Mhleli Vilakazi. The group originally consisted of 25 members, demonstrating a strong spirit of unity and community.

By 1999, the group had reduced to nine members and recorded their debut gospel album, Ukuthula. The album was produced by Musa Mayise, with the late Richard Sluma serving as executive producer. This marked a significant milestone in her musical career and established her presence in the gospel music scene.

In 2015, she featured on a Maskandi gospel track titled Mina Ngingavuma Kanjani, collaborating with Khulekani Sithole. Although her 2020 single Jesu Uthembile did not achieve the expected success, Thully Duze remained resilient and committed to her calling.

In 2022, she joined Indikimba Yomama, an isicathamiya group, and participated in a theatrical production titled The Back, further showcasing her versatility as both a singer and performer. Her passion for music continued to grow, leading to the recording of her album Vula Massing in 2025. On this project, she officially embraced her stage name, Thully Duze. The album features backing vocals from Kholeka Nxusa (Inxusaakazi) and Ndumiso Duze, and was produced by Mxolisi Sithole, with engineering by Njebomvu Biyela at Red Dog Record Studio.

Currently, Thully Duze is a member of Artist World Film Development, where she continues to nurture her talents in both music and acting.

Winile Nxusa, known as Thully Duze, represents perseverance, passion, and artistic dedication. From her humble beginnings in KwaZulu-Natal to her continued contributions in music and film, she remains an inspiring figure whose legacy continues to grow and impact others.