It is still a refreshing time of many firsts for South African multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, Bongeziwe Mabandla, who continues to ascend to new avenues of critical acclaim within the musical landscape.
His folklore dedication to lost love AmaXesha stole the spotlight as it won a coveted Metro FM award for The Best African Pop category, having competed against the likes of Inkabi Zezwe, Lwa Ndlunkulu, Nomfundo Moh and Zonke.
The successor to his critically acclaimed album iimini, amaXesha explores the complex nature of relationships on the backdrop of a rich palette of Afro-folk, electronic music, contemporary soul, and soft teenage rock.
Thematically, Bongeziwe wrestles with power dynamics, unrequited feelings, closure, comfort, and the daunting process of letting go. One of amaXesha’s captivating lead singles, “sisahlaleleni”, is enjoying a diverse remix palette.
The first is an amapiano remix by eclectic producer, Ntokzin, followed by a Henrik Schwarz Techno House/EDM/Dubstep remix. Both remixes form part of an ongoing instalment of reimagined songs aimed at broadening the creative lens and narrative sonic experience of one of the most invigorating records on the now award-winning musical masterpiece.
Grateful for the unwavering support of his fans and collaborators, Mabandla humbly accepts this honour, recognising the collective effort that has propelled him to this pinnacle of success.
“I am deeply thankful to my incredible fans who have stood by me on this journey,” Mabandla shares.
“Your love and encouragement inspire me daily, and I am truly blessed to have you in my corner.
Off the back of his Metro FM award win, Bongeziwe Mabandla announces the new dates for his global tour, see below:
21.05 Häkken, Hamburg, Germany
22.05 Yuca, Cologne, Germany
23.05 Kantine Am Berghain, Berlin, Germany
28.05 Ante Festival, Winterthur, Switzerland
01.06 Bushfire Festival, Malkerns, Eswatini
07.07 Metropolis Festival, Rotterdam, Netherlands
18.07 Valkhof Festival, Nijmegen, Netherlands
21.07 Cabane Bambou, Saint-Tropez, France
01.08 Midzomer Festival, Leuven, Belgium
03.08 Wilderness Festival, Oxfordshire, UK
06.08 Mühle Hunziken, Rubigen, Switzerland
Congratulations are in order for the healer of wounded spirits. Be sure to stream the amaXesha album, request your favourite single on radio stations and connect with Bongeziwe Mabandla online for more music news.
Connect with Bongeziwe Mabandla
Facebook: @BongeziweMabandlaOfficial
Twitter/X: @Bongeziwe
Instagram: @BongeziweMabandla
TikTok: @bongeziwemabandla
YouTube: @BongeziweMabandla
Main image: Supplied
