Kelly Khumalo's 'Nyamezela': the uplifting anthem you need to keep going

Kelly Khumalo has released her new single “Nyamezela”, a track that leads into her upcoming 11th studio album “Rebirth", which is set to arrive in the first week of October.

The album comprises nine tracks, with “Nyamezela” serving as a central piece to the project’s themes of resilience and hope.

The word “Nyamezela" translates to “hold on”, and the track carries a message of perseverance for listeners facing difficulties.

Through dance rhythms and lyrics of encouragement, Khumalo reaches out to people who have felt like giving up, reminding them that endurance will bring better days.

Speaking to “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Khumalo explained the personal meaning behind the song.

“I recorded this from a place of understanding. Every word was like a sharp sword cutting through the thickness of every hardship I’ve ever encountered. Only this time I sang from a place of power and the knowing of the joy that’s to come in the morning,” she said.

Her forthcoming album, “Rebirth”, marks a significant chapter in her career. Having released ten previous studio projects, Khumalo said this new body of work reflects not just her artistry but also her personal growth.

“Every sound, instrument, narrative and approach is a reflection of growth in this album. It’s no longer about trends but the impact and the indestructible legacy. Such only happens when one is brave enough to allow growth that comes through rebirth,” she said.

The singer described the record as an exploration of self-discovery and acceptance.

“Fans can expect a pure bliss of the journey of self-discovery, acceptance and love,” she explained.

Creating nine new songs brought its own challenges. For Khumalo, every track demanded something different from her, both emotionally and creatively.

“All nine songs challenged me cause they all required a different part of me,” she said.

When asked about the broader message she hopes people will take from “Rebirth", Khumalo spoke about resilience and belief in oneself.

“Remain in your place of power. Never question or doubt yourself. The reason for your existence is far more important than anything you will ever encounter,” she said.

Khumalo has built a career known for chart success and consistent recognition in the South African music industry. Her songs have earned certifications that highlight her popularity with listeners.

Her track “Empini" achieved double platinum status with more than 9.6 million streams. The digital version of the same single, released in 2021, was certified platinum after reaching over 4.8 million streams. 

Another single, “Ngathwala Ngaye", earned a gold certification with more than 2.4 million streams, while “Esphambanweni”, her collaboration with gospel singer Hlengiwe Mhlaba, also reached gold status.

These milestones reflect an audience that continues to connect with her work across genres and styles. With “Nyamezela" and the full album "Rebirth” on the horizon, Khumalo is aiming to continue that trajectory while offering her fans music rooted in both endurance and transformation.

For her, the new music is less about commercial trends and more about leaving something lasting.

“It’s about impact and legacy,” she said.