Simphiwe Dana questions Freshlyground's future without Zolani Mahola

Freshlyground has returned with a new single and a Cape Town singer, Mbali Makhoba, who is stepping into the lead singer role.

Makhoba takes on the role years after the first lead singer, Zolani Mahola, left the band and took the solo career route.

The band recently dropped their new single “Jabula”, their first release in seven years, which has sparked different opinions.

While many fans are excited to hear something new from the group, singer Simphiwe Dana made it clear on her X timeline that she believes the heart of the band still sits with Mahola.

The “Zandisile” singer believes some groups cannot function without their original vocal force.

“This new project without Zolani won’t work. As well as The Soil without Buhle. Stupid not to know what your band’s power is. Same with Thandiswa and Bongomuffin. It’s not gonna work without my sisters,” she wrote.  

Dana’s remarks stirred mixed reactions as some followers agreed with her, saying certain groups are simply too tied to their original voices. Others felt she was dismissing young black women who are finding their footing in a tough industry. 

One fan said, “I personally enjoy Buhlebendalo’s solo music a million times more than I enjoyed The Soil’s music. That separation worked in my favour. Freshlyground without Zolani? Whatever is being ground will be a bit stale, I’m afraid.”

Another wrote, “And yet you’re looking down at projects of other new black sisters trying to make their way in this hard industry. You couldn’t just wish well and move about your day?”

Freshlyground introduced Makhoba as their new frontwoman earlier this year after she began performing with members Simon Attwell, Julio Sigauque and Chris Bakalang in 2023. 

As reported by IOL, Makhoba made her official debut at their Kirstenbosch performance in January and has been part of the band’s live shows ever since. 

The group also recorded a Facebook video to answer fans’ questions about their new direction and reiterated their respect for Mahola, who left in 2019 to focus on her solo journey.

Their latest single, “Jabula”, was reportedly produced by Grammy winner JB Arthur, who also worked on their “Nomvula” album.

The release has drawn a lot of attention, both for the music and for the band’s new dynamic. 

In the video, Makhoba spoke openly about how natural the transition has felt for her, saying, “Everything is flowing with you guys; it didn’t feel like I had to fill in some type of shoes. It didn’t feel like I had to be something or someone that I’m not; it just flowed naturally. I felt like I knew you guys for a very long time.” 

The former band lead singer, Mahola, now performs under the name “The One Who Sings” and has made peace with this shift.

Her new identity is rooted in reconnecting with her Xhosa heritage, storytelling and nature. Her former bandmates have expressed that they wish her well in her journey.