Maskandi artist Malibongwe Zuma steps back into the spotlight as he delivers “Ngiyababa,” a five-track EP that arrived on August 19.
The project pulls from traditional Zulu music while layering in modern studio polish. Malibongwe leans into energetic vocal delivery and sharp songwriting throughout, keeping the Shuni waMangcukumane style front and center. He wrote these songs with intention, balancing heritage with contemporary production across the entire run.
The title track anchors the body of work. Malibongwe brings UMnotho, Mjabulisi, and JikiJiki along for the ride, and their vocals plus acoustic contributions deepen the traditional character. Other cuts like “Ukuk’thanda Yebo,” “Idata,” “Obachelor,” and “Ayisuka Uyadlala” stretch his distinctive approach even further.
His writing handles familiar Maskandi themes with a fresh hand. The songs feel personal yet rooted, and the production keeps every element crisp without burying the acoustic textures. Malibongwe’s voice carries the weight well, and the features slot in naturally beside him.
Have you spun “Ngiyababa” yet? Drop your thoughts in the comment section below.
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