Award-winning South African singer-songwriter Bongeziwe Mabandla opens up about his new single “Walila,” the emotional themes behind his upcoming album “Ndingubani,” and how he finds hope through music.
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Multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Bongeziwe Mabandla is entering a new era with the release of his latest single “Walila,” a deeply reflective yet upbeat offering that explores themes of karma, justice and emotional healing.
The track, which arrives ahead of his upcoming album “Ndingubani,” showcases Mabandla’s signature blend of vulnerability, theatrical storytelling and rich sonic textures.
While the song touches on pain and injustice, the artist intentionally approached the subject matter with humour and lightness.
He told Drum that he sometimes thinks humour can be essential for difficult moments.
“I wanted to make a song that is not very serious but also very me. I never really let myself get defeated, and this song is a testament to that. I’m very quietly strong,” he shared.
The inspiration behind “Walila” came unexpectedly while Mabandla was experimenting with a guitar.
The phrase about “crying tiny tears” immediately stood out to him, prompting him to save the idea quickly before it disappeared.
“I think each song requires something different, and songs are born in different ways, like this one, so fast, and it was so memorable. I hung on to the audio on my phone and made sure I didn’t lose it,” he said.
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Although the single carries an upbeat sound, Mabandla says the emotional core of the song is layered and rooted in overcoming hardship.
“It’s a song about pain, but it’s also a song about pain that has been confronted, and you are now on the other side. So it’s not just pain, it’s bliss and joy eventually,” he shared.
The musician’s forthcoming album, “Ndingubani,” which translates to “Who am I?”, digs even deeper into themes of identity, growth and belonging.
According to Mabandla, the project reflects on his life journey and the moments that have shaped him into the person he is today.
“Belonging is a big theme in my new project. I guess the question I’m asking here is not just ‘who am I?’ but who am I becoming and where do I belong?” he said.
Known for his emotional honesty and vulnerability, Mabandla admitted that opening himself up through music has not always been easy.
He explained that it’s always a risk, and, being such a sensitive person, he worries a lot more than ever before about what he shares.
“People are not always good, and I learnt that the hard way,” he said.
Over the years, Mabandla has become one of the defining voices of Africa’s Black Alternative movement alongside artists such as Msaki and Blick Bassy.
While he never intentionally set out to lead a movement, he says it’s encouraging to witness more Black alternative artists emerging across the continent.
“It’s mainly just trying to express myself and make music that moves people. I’m glad to see more black alternative artists release music,” he shared.
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Following sold-out performances across Europe, Mabandla also reflected on the differences between international audiences and fans back home in Africa.
“European audiences are much quieter and really focus on experiencing the artist’s world. While African audiences want to literally get on the stage and sing your song. Different but equally as beautiful,” he explained.
As he prepares to embark on the “Ndingubani” South African tour, Mabandla hopes audiences leave his performances inspired and uplifted.
“I want someone who watches my show to be inspired and to feel a sense of hope. All these songs are about finding and holding on to hope,” he said.
Global platforms like COLORS have also helped introduce Mabandla’s music to international audiences, opening doors he once never imagined.
“It’s been a wonderful surprise to get to see so much of the world and to be embraced far beyond my borders. It’s made me dream a bit bigger and want more for my career,” he shared.
Looking back on his journey from his debut project to now, Mabandla believes his younger self would simply feel proud.
“He’d be super proud and happy yet also surprised it all worked out.”
