Release Date: 13th August, 2024
Total Duration: 34 Mins 21 secs
Recording Studio: Thormination Studio
Producer: Onezwa Mchunu
Featured Artists: UMjabulisi, Zandl’ezinhle, Imeyakazwelonke, uMahlalekhweni, & TS Mthaniya
Number of Tracks: 07
Onezwa Mchunu, a trailblazing female maskandi music artist, has made a triumphant return to the music scene with her brand-new EP, “Hamba Juba”, released on August 13, 2024. After a brief hiatus, during which she made sporadic guest appearances on other artists’ projects, Onezwa Mchunu is back with a vengeance, showcasing her unique talent and dedication to the traditional maskandi sound.
The “Hamba Juba” EP is a masterfully crafted seven-track project that embodies the essence of maskandi music, while also incorporating modern elements to appeal to a wider audience. Onezwa Mchunu’s signature vocals and skillful guitar playing are on full display, transporting listeners to the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, where the genre originated.
One of the standout features of “Hamba Juba” is the impressive lineup of collaborating artists. Onezwa Mchunu has enlisted the talents of renowned maskandi musicians, including UMjabulisi, Zandl’ezinhle, Imeyakazwelonke, uMahlalekhweni, and TS Mthaniya. Each guest artist brings their unique style and flair to the project, resulting in a rich tapestry of sounds that pay homage to the genre’s roots while pushing its boundaries.
The EP’s title track, “Hamba Juba”, sets the tone for the project, with Onezwa Mchunu’s soaring vocals and intricate guitar work weaving a hypnotic spell. The subsequent tracks, including “Uthando Lwami” and “Izwe Lethu”, showcase her storytelling ability and emotional depth, tackling themes of love, social justice, and cultural heritage.
Throughout “Hamba Juba”, Onezwa Mchunu’s passion for maskandi music shines through, demonstrating her commitment to preserving and innovating within the genre. Her return to the music scene is a testament to the enduring power of maskandi, which continues to captivate audiences with its raw energy, poetic lyrics, and infectious rhythms.
Crew/Production members Behind the the project;
All Songs Composed By: Onezwa Mchunu
Engineered By: Mabh’lukwe
Mixed & Mastered By: Mabh’lukwe
Marketed & Distributed By: —
Recorded: Thormination Studio
Sleeve Designed By: Dlamini Graphic Design
Lead Vocals: Onezwa Mchunu
Backing Vocals: Onezwa Mchunu & Mabh’lukwe
Lead Guitar: Sphesihle Mbhele
Bass Guitar: Mabh’lukwe
Keyboards: Mabh’lukwe
With “Hamba Juba”, Onezwa Mchunu cements her status as one of the leading female figures in maskandi music, inspiring a new generation of artists and fans alike. This EP is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of KwaZulu-Natal and experiencing the magic of maskandi music.
Tracklist:
1. Uthando Ngolwakhe Ft Umjabulisi
2. Isgcwagcwa
3. Sabukaνα Καμναndi Ft Zandlezinhle
4. Ulele Ubaba Ft Umahlalekhweni
5. Hamba Juba Ft Imeya Kazwelonke
6. Lelikhaya Lakho
7. Ngivulele Ft Ts Mthaniya