Zolani Mahola Explores New Depths in Solo Career and Upcoming Music

Zolani Mahola, known for her captivating voice on Freshlyground’s iconic Nomvula album, has gifted South Africans with a collection of deeply vulnerable and passionate songs. Since leaving the band in 2019 to pursue a solo career, Mahola has grown as an artist, exploring themes of ancestry, womanhood, spirit, identity, and healing.

Reflecting on her time with Freshlyground, she describes it as a period of joy, unity, and global connection. “My solo journey has taken me deeper… I feel more aligned with my truest voice than ever before,” she shared with Drum.

From a young age, Mahola incorporated activism into her art. She recalls joining a toyi-toyi protest as a child, feeling the power of her voice in harmony with the crowd. This early experience shaped her belief that music and activism are inseparable. Mahola explains, “Music is activism because when you truly see people, you fight for them. When I sing about women, children, land, queerness, Black joy, anxiety, and heritage, I am speaking to our collective healing. Love drives the work.”

Honesty in music has been a central lesson in her career. She emphasizes listening to the world, the audience, and her inner voice. “Being open, playful, humble, and willing to learn has helped me grow as a person and as an artist,” she said.

Mahola is currently in the studio working on her next album, experimenting with various sounds and styles. Her upcoming single, ‘XhosaNostra,’ features Cape Town rapper Bravo Le Roux and is set for release on 28 November. The track celebrates Xhosa confidence and culture. Mahola credits producer Hannah V with bringing the collaboration together, noting the chemistry between her and Bravo in the studio.

Beyond ‘XhosaNostra,’ Mahola is exploring Afro-house, jazz, and orchestral African compositions. She promises a full body of work soon, encouraging fans to stay tuned for more details.

Mahola continues to blend artistry, activism, and community in her music, offering a voice that resonates deeply with South Africans while pushing boundaries across genres. Her solo career signals a new chapter of introspection, empowerment, and creative evolution.