Nhlanhla Mafu's 'Inqaba Yami' tops SA music charts as she embraces solo career
After 27 years with iconic group Mafikizolo, Nhlanhla Mafu steps into the spotlight with her chart-topping solo release 'Inqaba Yami'. Discover how this 47-year-old music veteran is reinventing herself while staying true to her artistic roots.
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Nhlanhla Mafu has officially stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist after 27 years with the award-winning group Mafikizolo. Her latest single, Inqaba Yami, a deep house track with Gospel influences, has this week become the most-played solo song on South African music television channels.
While Mafu previously released solo singles such as Mahlalela and Thanda Ngalendlela, they did not receive the same recognition as her group work. Now, with Inqaba Yami, she appears to be finding her own rhythm and audience.
Mafu said the decision to focus on solo work was about establishing her own identity beyond the Mafikizolo brand. “Breaking away from a group is never easy, especially when your identity is so closely tied to it,” she said. “But this is a journey I’m ready for.”
Despite their solo pursuits, Mafu and Mafikizolo co-founder Theo Kgosinkwe have confirmed that the group is not disbanding. “We’re still taking bookings and performing as Mafikizolo,” they said. “We’re just exploring solo journeys alongside that.”
Formed in 1996 as a trio, Mafikizolo originally included Mafu, Kgosinkwe and the late Tebogo Madingoane, who died in 2004. Over the years, the group has achieved major success, and Mafu has remained a standout vocalist.
Since the announcement of her solo direction, Mafu has been making media appearances on her own, including performances on Metro FM and UbuntuFM. She’s begun collaborating with other artists, expanding her sound, and exploring new musical landscapes.
Mafu recently teased a new collaboration with artist Speedy via a post on her X (formerly Twitter) account. She also continues to support her son, musician Ciza, in his career.
Speaking to Chanel Africa, she described her approach to staying relevant: “It’s always been about working with young people. When you bring the old and the new together, you stay current. That’s my philosophy — in music, fashion and everything I do.”
IOL Entertainment