South African Maskandi musician Shanela returns with a culturally rich body of work titled “Obaby Mama (Album)” for indigenous music lovers. The project lands as purists of the genre search for melody-driven Zulu folklore built on acoustic excellence.

Shanela, a traditional Maskandi artist and storyteller, uses the album to explore modern familial relationships. He also touches domestic discord, economic resilience and ancestral strength across the collection. The writing carries deep emotional conviction, while his vocal delivery stays grounded in native customs.

That focus on storytelling has earned Shanela a name across the regional terrain. His adherence to Maskandi traditions sets him apart from artists who treat the genre as a passing sound. “Obaby Mama (Album)” instead leans into the customs that shaped his craft.

The songs aim to reach listeners across generations, because the themes speak to everyday family life. Have you played “Obaby Mama (Album)” yet? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.