Babes Wodumo Returns with New Album “Mabheshingo” After Five-Year Hiatus

The queen of gqom, Babes Wodumo, real name Bongekile Simelane, has returned to the music scene after a five-year break. Her hiatus followed the tragic loss of her award-winning music producer husband, Mampintsha, who passed away from a stroke a day before Christmas in 2022.

Wodumo and Mampintsha married in April 2021, and welcomed their son, nicknamed Spontshi, in June of the same year. His sudden death left Wodumo navigating a period of intense grief and personal reflection.

She is back with her latest studio project, “Mabheshingo,” marking her first release since 2020’s “Indando Kazi.” Wodumo announced the album on Instagram, revealing that it includes several songs left to her by Mampintsha.

“I’m excited to announce my album release on the 3rd. I added a few songs @mampintsha_shimora left me with, can’t wait for everyone to hear it. Yep! I’m still the Queen of Gqom, my album is called MABHESHINGO,” she wrote.

On her Instagram Stories, Wodumo reflected on her journey. “Went through all the phases of life. A queen knows when to stop and take it all in. Everyone has been wanting to sit on the throne, but the gqom game was locked and only the true queen has the key, and now she has returned to unlock the throne, the gate and chains because the gqom queen has returned stronger than ever.”

Fans immediately reacted with excitement and support. Former “Generations” actress and DJ Thuli Phongolo commented, “I literally need a wall to hold onto… weeeeeeh maaaaaaa!!!” Other fans expressed pride, anticipation, and admiration for Wodumo’s resilience and talent.

Babes Wodumo is no stranger to breaking barriers. Her explosive debut single “Wololo” introduced gqom to mainstream audiences and solidified her status as a leading figure in the genre. With “Mabheshingo,” she aims to reclaim her throne and continue shaping the sound of South African gqom music.