Danya Devs – Abakhongi

South African singer-songwriter Danya Devs turns a marriage promise into “Abakhongi,” a standout track 13 on his solo album Bayede. The song is built on a simple idea. Abakhongi are traditional marriage negotiators, and the narrator promises to send some for his love. He names Ndu and Sjava for the job, a playful nod to real names in Zulu culture. A line about his love looking like a doll, with Barbie jealous, adds more humour to the record. Ndu Browns and Sjava also appear on “Uber Eats,” track 4 on the same album. Credits name Danya Devs as writer and list him with KingLee Beats as composers. It runs 2:40, so it moves quickly. “Skorokoro” just before it brings Empro and Mawelele, while this one is Danya alone. He sings in Zulu throughout. Bayede is Zulu for hail or all rise, a salute that fits a man announcing his own path. The album carries 18 Afro-pop songs across about 52 minutes. Cassper Nyovest is on “Stayela.” Danya Devs also came out of Blaq Diamond, so this is a solo statement. Have you heard “Danya Devs – Abakhongi” yet? Which negotiators would you send for your own wedding? Drop your answer in the comment section.