Mzansi Newspaper, Mamelodi (2025)

15/07/2025

Mzansi Wethu Presents a Brand New Telenovela: Homecoming.
Homecoming, a compelling new telenovela from award-winning production house, Tshedza Pictures, is coming to Mzansi Wethu on 28 July at 18:30.
Set in the rural town of Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, Homecoming follows Zethu Hlongwane, played by Mpume “Six” Nyamane (Unmarried), a straight-A medical graduate hoping to become one of the country’s few Black female surgeons. But when things don’t turn out how she had hoped, with no job or placement, she is forced to return to the village she left behind.

There, Zethu finds herself at the crossroads of two worlds, that of western medicine and traditional healing when she meets Sifiso Kubheka, played by award-winning actor Thembinkosi Mthembu (Shaka iLembe, The River). Sifiso is a police officer by day and a traditional healer by night, challenging everything she thought she knew about love, healing and home.

“Homecoming is a story that speaks to so many South Africans. It is rich in emotion, grounded in culture and full of heart. We are proud to have a show on Mzansi Wethu that reflects the complexity and beauty of rural life in a way that feels fresh, honest and deeply relatable,” says Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels.

Producer Lulu Hela also shares her excitement about working on the new production: “Homecoming is a deeply meaningful project for us. The title reflects a return to the places, people, and practices that shaped us. At the heart of this story is a powerful conversation between traditional and western medicine, two worlds often seen in opposition. Viewers can expect a rich, character – driven story that challenges, heals, and sparks conversation.”
Season 1 boasts an impressive cast list featuring a mix of talented fresh and familiar faces like Sipho Manzini (The Queen, iNkaba), Khombi Phetla (The River), Mpilo Mbatha (Shaka Ilembe, The River), Khayalethu Xaba (Shaka Ilembe, Lavish) and Amahle Khumalo (Empini).

Don’t miss the premiere of Homecoming on Monday the 28th July at 18:30, Mondays to Wednesdays on Mzansi Wethu (DStv Channel 163). Homecoming replaces Sibongile & The Dlaminis which comes to an end on Wednesday 23 July.

14/07/2025

Producer and DJ bags life-changing deal with Sportscene
DJ and Producer Airburn Sounds will be adding his magic touch and producing songs by Sportscene Put Me On 2024 competition winners P-Flow and Laqasha S!R

Airburn Sounds recently produced Zanda Zakuza’s comeback single Ndinga, after a few years not making music
Airburn Sounds produced Stilo Magolide’s new single Ama N*gga
Airburn Sounds has worked with Zuma, Mawhoo, Leemckrazy, Mulest Vankay and BoontleRSA on his upcoming project

JOHANNESBURG: He has kept a humble and modest career in the background, producing strictly hits for major artists such as Nomcebo Zikode, Makhadzi, Temwah, Zanda Zakuza, Boity Thulo, Rethabile Khumalo, Nokwazi, and many more, including international Grammy winner Akon.
This year, he takes centre stage as a DJ and producer, releasing only hits. He recently produced Stilo Magolide’s latest single, Ama N*gga, which was officially released and launched on Friday, 11 July. Airburn Sounds is the magic touch behind Zanda Zakuza’s comeback hit Ndinga.
His distinct tapestry of sounds earned him recognition. The producer and DJ from Ebony Park with roots in Limpopo has now bagged a massive deal to produce the songs by Sportscene Put Me On 2024 competition winners P-Flow and Laqasha S!R. Airburn Sounds shared the news on their social media that they are currently in the studio. The three are seen shopping for competition partner Puma gear and headed to the studio to make magic.

“The opportunity is amazing - it will open doors for many powerful and amazing collaborations with brands and artists. I am grateful.”

Airburn Sounds is also currently wrapping up his double EP, which will be one EP - Soulful Amapiano and the other half Dance (Sgubhu style). His first single before the EP is set to be released in a few weeks. In his upcoming project, he has worked with the likes of Amaroto member Zuma, Boontle RSA, Sir Trill, Mawhoo, OHP Sage, Veyane, Mulest Vankay, and Leemckrazy, to name a few.

“I cannot wait for people to hear the music I have been working on. I have been in the studio every day for almost a year cooking, and I know people will love the music.”

14/07/2025

‘Breakfast with Mugabe’ Premieres in South Africa
The Market Theatre and National Arts Festival present ‘Breakfast with Mugabe’, a gripping psychological drama directed by Calvin Ratladi, 2025 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre. The play had a powerful premiere at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda, where it was praised for being “thought-provoking” (Groccot’s Mail) and “spotlighting mental health” (City Press). It has since returned to Jo’burg for a greatly anticipated run, starting from 17 July – 10 August 2025 at The Market Theatre.
Written by distinguished British playwright, Fraser Grace, ‘Breakfast with Mugabe’ boasts an exemplary cast that includes Themba Ndaba portraying Mugabe and Gontse Ntshegang as his wife, Grace. Craig Jackson plays Mugabe’s psychiatrist, Dr Peric, while Zimbabwean actor Farai Chigudu takes on the role of Mugabe’s bodyguard.
Critics have hailed the script as a “modern-day ‘Macbeth’” in which Mugabe’s haunted psyche, tormented by the vengeful spirit of a dead comrade, becomes the play’s driving force. Inspired by reports that the former Zimbabwean president once privately sought the help of a white psychiatrist, the play is a fictional imagining of conversations between the probing Dr Peric and his powerful, avoidant patient. As the psychiatrist attempts to pierce Mugabe’s defences, the two men delve into themes of grief, healing, faith, nationalism and legacy.
A timely masterpiece, ‘Breakfast with Mugabe’ arrives in South Africa as the country undertakes to influence the global balance of forces as an equal international player with a sovereign voice. In exploring the complexities of Mugabe, the script pokes – with theatrical distinction – at uncomfortable continental truths about the degeneration of African liberators into ruthless dictators, the myths around mental illnesses in African societies and the enduring structural violence embodied by colonial systems.
The work further exposes the dangers of former liberation icons ascending to power without confronting their own trauma. It examines the cost of war, the burden of memory and the lingering effects of unhealed betrayal. Weaving between Mugabe’s first and second marriages, the script poignantly fuses the personal with the political, showing how one man's search for redemption mirrored the collapse of a nation’s dreams.
Additionally, the production sets the tone for a fresh generational conversation about Africa’s future, while staging a provocation, a mirror, a moment of reflection and collective release.
“This is not a biography or a courtroom drama. It’s a psychological reckoning—a fictional encounter between Mugabe and a psychiatrist that lays bare the cost of unprocessed grief, the violence of ego, and the burden of legacy. Through sharp dialogue and intense performances, we explore Mugabe not as a historical figure frozen in time, but as a deeply wounded man wrestling with ghosts. Audiences may find echoes of their own leaders, their families, even themselves, in that struggle,” shares the play’s director, Calvin Ratladi.
Ratladi continues that presenting this work for the first time in South Africa has been a full-circle moment, saying: “This story has lived in the global north for too long without being grounded in the soil from which it draws its spirit. To bring it home now, at a time when African identity, leadership and healing are again up for urgent discussion, is both an honour and a responsibility. It’s also a challenge to our audiences to look again at the icons we’ve
mythologised, and to question what stories we pass down about who we are, and who we were meant to be.”
Don’t miss this historic moment in South African theatre, with a cast that understands the assignment. Tickets for ‘Breakfast with Mugabe’ are available on Webtickets, with half-price specials on Wednesdays. Special discounts apply for groups of four or more and preview performances.
‘Breakfast with Mugabe’ is a co-production of the National Arts Festival, The Market Theatre and Festival Enterprise Catalyst (FEC), in association with the Calvin Ratladi Foundation, with contributing funding from Standard Bank South Africa.

10/07/2025

Kenny G Live at the Iconic Sun City Superbowl on 3 October 2025

By Popular Demand, Kenny G Announces Additional South Africa Tour Date at Iconic Sun City Superbowl

Tickets Now Live

Wednesday, 1 October 2025: Durban ICC, Durban
Thursday, 2 October 2025: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
Friday, 3 October 2025: Superbowl, Sun City, North West
Saturday, 4 October 2025: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria

Johannesburg, Friday, 4 July 2025 – When smooth jazz royalty speaks, the world listens. And when South African fans speak? The maestro adds another show.

Due to overwhelming demand, a fourth South African tour date has been announced for GRAMMY Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G. The music legend will now perform at the iconic Sun City Superbowl on Friday, 3 October 2025, offering fans one more magical opportunity to experience his timeless artistry live.

The announcement comes on the heels of a powerful wave of support from local audiences, with tickets for Durban, Cape Town and Pretoria selling at record pace. The addition of Sun City, at a venue that has played host to music’s most revered names, promises a once-in-a-lifetime evening of golden era nostalgia and masterful musicianship.

With a career spanning more than four decades and over 75 million albums sold worldwide, Kenny G remains a symbol of sophistication, soul, and enduring musical impact. From the soaring emotion of “Forever in Love” to the beloved classic “Songbird,” his melodies have become part of the global soundtrack of love, celebration and reflection.

"It’s been way too long since our last visit to South Africa. We had an incredible time performing for such a warm and passionate audience. We are really looking forward to finally coming back to share our music with all of you again," says Kenny G.

Nestled in the heart of the North West province, the Sun City Superbowl offers fans an unrivalled live music experience: intimate, yet grand, and surrounded by the glamour of one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations.

Tickets for the newly added Sun City date are now on sale https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1571540372. Fans are strongly encouraged not to miss out. If the first round of sales is anything to go by, this show will sell out fast.

Whether you’re a lifelong admirer or new to the Kenny G experience, this additional show is your invitation to witness the magic up close. The tone is set. The stage is calling. Sun City is ready.

Here are the details for Kenny G’s South African Tour Dates

Kenny G: Live in Durban
Date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
Venue: Durban ICC, Durban
Tickets: Kenny G: Live in Durban

Kenny G: Live in Cape Town
Date: Thursday, 2 October 2025
Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
Tickets: Kenny G - Live in Cape Town

Kenny G: Live in Sun City
Date: Friday, 3 October 2025
Venue: Superbowl, Sun City
Tickets: Kenny G: Live at Sun City

Kenny G: Live in Pretoria
Date: Saturday, 4 October 2025
Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria
Tickets: hKenny G: Live in Pretoria

For more information go to https://breakout.events/

Connect with Kenny G:
Official Website: Kenny G
Instagram: Kenny G () • Instagram photos and videos
TikTok: Kenny G () Official | TikTok
Facebook: Kenny G
X: Kenny G () / X
YouTube: KennyGVEVO - YouTube
Spotify: Kenny G Songs, Albums, Bio & More | Spotify

Connect with BreakOut Events:
Official Website: Breakout Events
Facebook: Breakout Events
Instagram: Breakout Events ()
TikTok: Breakout Events

10/07/2025

MISS SA CONVEYS ITS BEST WISHES TO IT'S FORMER CEO, STEPHANIE WEIL, IN HER NEW ENDEAVOURS
The organisers of Miss South Africa wish Stephanie Weil everything of the best with her new
endeavours as an agreement has been reached that Ms Weil will be leaving the organisation after
many years as CEO of Miss South Africa. Ms Weil will be staying on for as long as is required to ensure
a smooth transition to new leadership and to ensure that the best interest of the Miss South Africa
organisation are served.
The organisers of the Miss SA contest are making good progress with the preparations for the Miss SA
contest, which will be a huge success.
Miss SA is grateful to Stephanie for the work she did whilst she was CEO of the organisation.

09/07/2025

Conflicting SAPS Statements Fuel Concerns Over Disbanded Political Killings Task Team

Confusion and concern are mounting after senior SAPS officials issued contradictory statements about the abrupt shutdown of the Political Killings Task Team.

Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, claimed during an interview with Thabo Mdluli on Newzroom Afrika that he had disbanded the unit on instructions from National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola. According to Sibiya, Masemola had relayed a directive from Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, formalised in a letter. He added that, as a result, 121 sensitive case dockets were taken from the task team and moved to his office in Pretoria.

However, General Masemola has strongly refuted these allegations. Speaking at a media briefing in Vanderbijlpark on July 9, Masemola declared, “I am sure you have not seen any letter that I have signed to close the unit.” He insisted that he never issued such an instruction and denied any involvement in shutting down the team.

The controversy deepened when KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, accused both Sibiya and Mchunu of meddling in police investigations by disbanding the specialised unit. The task team had reportedly been probing politically sensitive cases, including a crime syndicate allegedly involving politicians, police officers, and prosecutors.

Mkhwanazi further revealed that five of the seized dockets contained warrants for arrest, fuelling suspicions that the team’s sudden closure was an attempt to protect influential figures from prosecution.

09/07/2025

Theatre Veteran, Aldo Brincat, Brings Probing Show to Jo’burg

Hailed as a masterclass in writing and performance, Aldo Brincat’s ‘The Moon Looks Delicious From Here’ is coming to Jo’burg for the first time after its massive national and international success. The captivating semi-autobiographical story about immigration plays at The Market Theatre from 9 – 27 July 2025. This multi-award-winning piece of theatre is an action-packed exploration of identity, sexuality and heritage.

Told with brave vulnerability and theatrical flair, the play is Brincat’s personal account as a first-generation South African in his family. It is directed by Sjaka Septembir, with music by internationally renowned singer and songwriter, Bongeziwe Mabandla.

‘The Moon Looks Delicious From Here’ won a Standard Bank Silver Ovation Award at the 50th anniversary of the National Arts Festival (2024) and The Special Jury Award at the Bitesize Theatre Festival in London (2024).

In this solo performance, multidisciplinary artist, Brincat, plays an array of characters in and around a fragile young nuclear family – some foreign, some local – all of whom are finding or losing themselves in the ever-changing political landscape. Language, religion, ambition, sexuality and political leanings are brought into sharp focus as the show’s two lead characters (both played by Brincat) fight off ‘otherness’, while attempting to assert themselves into a volatile new country. As the effects of apartheid – and its homophobic policies – begin to reach a boiling point, family ties threaten to tear apart.

Brincat says ‘The Moon Looks Delicious From Here’ is a timely intersectional work with relevant themes for our current sociopolitical context. He explains, “This show is universal in its theme, particularly at this time when the intersectional knock-on effects of migrancy, sexuality, heritage and identity are brought increasingly into our consciousness. It makes us question what and who we think belongs, probing our conventional understanding of identity, family, ancestry and nationality.”

As Brincat courageously confronts his personal history, he generously holds space for audiences to revisit their own painful memories, heal their inner child and reconcile with the tragedies of their past.
Tickets for the show are available on Webtickets - https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1566980388 , with half-price specials on Wednesdays. Special discounts apply for groups of four or more and preview performances.

09/07/2025

Celebrate Mzansi Magic’s 15th Birthday
…with a Pop-Up Channel Honouring the Stories That Raised Mzansi

Fifteen years ago, a bold new voice emerged on South African television, one that spoke our language, reflected Mzansi lives and told Mzansi stories in a very refreshing way. That voice was Mzansi Magic.
Now Mzansi Magic is celebrating its milestone birthday with a heartfelt tribute to the shows, stars and stories that shaped a generation. As part of the many celebrations, DStv is launching a Pop-Up Channel (DStv channel 196), a trip down memory lane for the viewers who have been part of the Mzansi Magic journey.

We are bringing the celebration to your screens with an unmissable special documentary, incredible birthday giveaways plus more exciting content to keep the party going.
“Mzansi Magic has always been about stories that reflect who we are… real, raw and proudly South African,” says Shirley Adonisi, Channel Director for Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net. “This pop-up channel is our way of saying ‘Siyabonga Mzansi’ for 15 unforgettable years. Our channel was raised by the audience, we are grateful for their commitment, and we want to celebrate with them. We’re throwing it back, remembering the icons and moments that shaped us yet still looking forward to the next chapter.”

“For 15 years, Mzansi Magic has stood at the heart of South African entertainment — a platform where authenticity meets ambition, and where themes of family, resilience, and identity are brought to life through bold storytelling and unforgettable characters,” says Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment. “What sets Mzansi Magic apart is not just the stories we tell, but the scale and diversity with which we tell them. From intimate, niche productions that quietly become cult favourites, to large-scale, high-impact narratives that capture the national imagination — our storytelling continues to evolve and resonate.”

This Pop-Up Channel, launching on Saturday 12 July will feature themed viewing days that celebrate the best of the past 15 years. From rivalries and boss queens to music, reality, drama and downright fun…all of which have made Mzansi Magic the real home of local.
From its earliest days Mzansi Magic delivered a string of firsts that changed the local TV landscape:
• First original drama (2012): iNkaba, a gripping tale of fashion, family and betrayal.
• First telenovela hit (2013): Isibaya, which introduced unforgettable characters like the Zungus and Ndlovus.
• First bold drama series (2013): Rockville, a gritty, glamorous series that pushed boundaries and launched careers.
• First reality sensation (2017): Date My Family, where awkward dinners became national conversation starters.
• First female-led prison drama (2017): Lockdown, which broke stereotypes and won hearts.
So, whether you were there for the very first “Yoh!” or joined the journey along the way, this is your moment to relive the magic. Don’t miss out…set your reminders, rally the fam and get ready to say, “Waar was jy?”

07/07/2025

Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Presents: Jazz for Young People – A Family Celebration of Jazz and Community

Johannesburg, South Africa 24 June 2025 - The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival is proud to present Jazz for Young People, a vibrant concert event dedicated to celebrating young jazz lovers while raising funds for the National School of Arts (NSA). The fundraiser event will take place on 26 July 2025, from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM, at the National School of Arts In Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

Get ready for an unforgettable day of jazz and music at Jazz for Young People festival on the 26th July 2025. This dynamic event by young people for young people, combines world-class entertainment with opportunities for young entrepreneurs and practitioners to access new markets.

We are thrilled to announce that the National School of Arts (NSA) alumni Zoe Modiga will be conducting a roadshow, visiting some of the schools featured in the event line-up. During these visits, Zoe will mentor the students, helping them prepare and perfect their performances for the big day. This initiative is designed to inspire, guide, and empower the young performers, ensuring they shine on stage.

The lineup features renowned siblings’ trio Biko's Manna, the crossover jazz band Iphupho L’ka Biko, alongside breakout performances by local school bands.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Zoe Modiga will be featured on the National School of Arts Band’s bill. Other amazing participating schools from across the Gauteng Regions include Khutlo Tharo Jazz Band, Sibikwa Marimba Band, East Rand School of The Arts, Morris Isaacson School of The Arts, Parktown Girls Marimba Band; Springs Boys High School, Tshwane School of Music and Willow Crescent Magnet School of Music Band whislt TheRealDJ Zandy headlines as selector of the day.

Apart from great music, ticket buyers will enjoy a thrilling fun day for the whole family with a dedicated area with inflatables and fun games to keep children entertained. Art lovers will enjoy an amazing art exhibition by NSA students showcasing artworks inspired by jazz culture. There will also be an offering of delicious succulent food stalls offering a variety for all tastes.

“Jazz for Young People is a wonderful opportunity to bring families and communities together through the universal language of music. We are elated to create a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere where young people can not only enjoy incredible jazz performances but also feel inspired by the creativity and energy of this timeless art form.

“Our goal is to celebrate the rich heritage of jazz while nurturing the next generation of artists and fans who will carry this legacy forward,” said Mantwa Chinoamadi, Festival Producer and CEO at T-Musicman.

In addition to celebrating jazz and community, this event will also serve as a fundraiser to support the National School of Arts, helping to empower young artists and sustain arts education in South Africa.

Jazz for Young People invites everyone – young and old, parents, educators, and jazz fans – to come together and enjoy a day that honours the future of art and jazz in South Africa.

Event Details:
· When: 26 July 2025 Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
· Where: National School of Arts, 17 Hoofd Str, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Tickets are available at: Quicket starting from R50
https://www.quicket.co.za/events/316890-jazz-for-young-people-youth-festival/ #/

07/07/2025

Cruz Afrika calls for peace between him and rapper Emtee
Ahead of his release for his single Tau featuring a surprise Motswako rapper, and his reality TV show, Cruz Afrika wants to start on a clean slate - new image, new brand, and calls for peace between him and rapper Emtee.

Their beef dates back to 2017. What was meant to be banter turned ugly, and the two rappers fell out. All grown up, no longer looking for clout and hype, rapper Cruz wants to make peace and start afresh.

They were once close friends, thick as thieves, and did some work together and have several unreleased songs in their bank. But when rumours surfaced that some people in their circle of friends sacrificed their late friend Swati so they could get ahead, things turned sour. Cruz was fingered as one of the people and instigators at the centre of the conspiracy theory, and accused Emtee of being part of the alleged Illuminati. He came out guns blazing on social media and even released a diss track dedicated to Emtee.

Years have since passed, Cruz, all grown up, has reached out to Emtee wanting to make peace and book him for his concert, the Rusternburg Garden Festival on 25 December 2025. However, Emtee has rejected the offer. Ahead of the concert, Cruz is set to release his single Tau, which he describes as "a mature and better version" of himself.

"I've grown up now. I want my music to be wholesome and uplifting. I want to squash the beef with Emtee and start over. I invited him to perform as a guest at my annual Rustenburg Garden Festival event, and he declined. I just want to make amends," Cruz Afrika says.

Cruz Afrika’s upcoming relese features a massive Motswako artist whom he will announce in due time. The release comes two years after Cruz Afrika took a break from releasing music.

"I took time off from making music because I wanted to focus on my event company and other businesses, but because music is a calling, I had to answer to fans. My supporters kept asking me to drop more new music, so I thought of a comeback.”

Tau is set to be released in Spring on 05 September 2025. Cruz Afrika is also set to share his story on Moja LOVE (157) in the reality show Love In The Keys to premiere in August 2025.

04/07/2025

DJ, SINGER-SONGWRITER AND ABANTU LABEL OWNER CHARISSE C, RELEASES NEW 3-STEP SINGLE ‘5 EK'SENI’ OUT NOW

Johannesburg, Friday, 4 July 2025 – 5 EK'SENI (5AM) is the first single from Abantu's inaugural recording camp, featuring 10 African artists in the British Diaspora, handpicked by Charisse C herself, supported by Baltic Studio’s and Nando’s.

Produced by longtime collaborator, Kwamzy, this 3-Step Dance record mixes English, Zulu and Shona lyrics to tell an infectious story about the hedonistic pleasures of a ladies night out.

“It’s 5am in the morning, tiri mugomba (we are the bottom of the night), asifun’ukulala emakhaya (we don’t want to sleep at home)”

This first single from the Abantu founder’s upcoming “ABANTU MEANS PEOPLE” EP, makes yet another mark for the cultural trailblazer Charisse C, who holds a powerful presence in dance music with her label and event series Abantu; insistent on boundary pushing artistry rooted in Southern Africa, presented with a high level of care and quality.

When asked about the release of 5 EK’SENI Charisse C said:
“I hosted this recording camp at Baltic Studios in East London in October 2024, I’ve been working towards bringing together the artists whose music I’ve supported for years through my DJ sets and radio shows, for a long time. Through this project, not only does my own growth as a singer-songwriter-producer shine, but also my ear for talent, my A&Ring skills and my unwavering dedication to building community and culture with a people-first ethos.

In an era of Dance music where the mash-up and the ghost producer have become King and integrity often comes second; the focus was on original music, true stories, real experimentation and exploration, developing identity in artistry and making good music.”

Connect with Charisse C:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charisseec/
X: https://x.com/CharisseeC
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq31wyaWhg3W8Ojm8tM2HtA

04/07/2025

Samthing Soweto’s new album captures a day in Soweto and a collection of love songs from South Africa’s very own “iqanda le country”

Samthing Soweto’s “Touch Is a Move: Good Morning” is Out Now

Stream Here

Johannesburg, Friday, 4 July 2025 – Samthing Soweto returns with his long-awaited second album, Touch Is a Move: Good Morning.

The album title draws from his personal philosophy and ritual. “Touch Is a Move” echoes a rule from games played in childhood: once you touched a piece, you had to make the move – no hesitation, no take-backs. It’s a phrase that grew to reflect a way of living with courage and decisiveness. “Good Morning” was born from a simple ritual Samkelo began in 2023 – a daily greeting to his online audience that became a method of maintaining community and connection. Together, these phrases speak to the album’s intention: a decisive exploration of how simple rituals, words, and connections shape who we become.

The album unfolds like an ordinary day in Soweto, beginning with the crescendo of an early morning and winding down into the late evening’s reflections. Told through a blend of interludes and songs, it follows a day in the life of five-year-old Samkelo in the early 1990s. We are introduced to uMama, uGogo, bhut’ Lungisa, sis’ Amina, and sis’ BhiBhi through his eyes. We hear his thoughts, see his world, and witness the wonder of living across different generations in his home. The voice of young Samkelo becomes our guide. And although in real life he is the third of four children, the album returns to a time when he was “iqanda lakubo” – the last-born.

These memories are not only presented as nostalgic flashbacks but as vivid threads woven into the fabric of the present.

Running alongside these interludes is a collection of love songs, each one exploring a different dimension of love: romantic, familial, complex, vulnerable, playful, and much more.

- “Indandatho” is a vow of love through tradition; it plays with the concept of ukulobola.
- “Ama Get Down” (with Blxckie) speaks to emotional confusion in a difficult relationship.
- “Don’t Wanna Let Go” is a heartfelt plea to fix things before it’s too late.
- “Swi” is a playful exchange with an ex.
- “Amagents” is a father’s warning to his daughter about boys.
- “Come Duze” is an invitation for closeness and affection.
- “325” celebrates the charm and poetry of ukushela intombi.
- “Ngicela Sithandane” is a direct and honest request to be loved.
- “Yebo (Ngiyazifela)” explores insecurity and longing in a relationship.
- “Deda” is a call for a loved one to stay safe and come home.

The final interlude, “GoodNight” closes the album with a prayer led by uGogo. As young Samkelo drifts off to sleep, he reflects on his day, his family, and his ultimate wish to belong. The day ends, and so does the album – gently, intimately, and joyfully.

Samthing Soweto, born Samkelo Lelethu Mdolomba, has long been one of the continent’s most exceptional musical voices. As a founding member of The Soil, he helped revolutionise the a ca****la space. His solo career has seen chart-topping success with hits like “Akanamali,” “Akulaleki,” “AmaDM,” and his platinum-selling debut album Isphithiphithi. With sold-out tours, multiple awards, and a sound that defies genre and convention, Samthing Soweto continues to shape and shift the sound of South African music.

This new album reaffirms his position as a heavyweight artist, a storyteller of extraordinary depth, and a singer whose voice carries both memory and meaning

Touch Is a Move: Good Morning is now available to stream on all major music stores: https://Platoon.lnk.to/touch-is-a-move-good-morning

Connect with Samthing Soweto:
Instagram:
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TikTok:
YouTube: Samthing Soweto

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