Sobzeen Steps Into the Spotlight with iThemba Lami, a Bold Amapiano-Gospel Debut

Once a ghostwriter behind many hits, DJ and producer Sobzeen (Zakhele Mbuyisa) is claiming his own space in the music industry. After years of producing and crafting songs behind the scenes, he now steps forward with his 11-track album, iThemba Lami, set for release on Friday, 8 August 2025.

The album introduces a new sound Sobzeen calls “Hope Amapiano,” blending gospel music with Amapiano rhythms. It reflects perseverance through hardship. “It is a mix of warm melodies, portraying messages of strength and resilience. It is about me reinforcing the idea that even in hard times, faith can serve as an anchor,” Sobzeen explains.

Nothing about the project is accidental. The album artwork makes a bold statement, symbolizing faith, freedom, and broken chains. Sobzeen uses these symbols to tell his story of struggle and hope. “The chain represents every contract that restricted me and each credit I was denied. The cross symbolizes the hope that sustained me throughout my journey,” he says.

The black background in the artwork represents isolation and the unseen influence behind many musical successes. The chain and cross illustrate the music industry’s constraints and Sobzeen’s unwavering hope. His puff hoodie blends streetwear with a sense of sanctity, representing his steadfast identity.

iThemba Lami is released through the new record label Solid Sound. The album features collaborations with Pale Moloi, Russell Zuma, Youme, Stu, Deep London, Zee_nhle, Casey Ntuli, Dr Thulz, Mr Maker, DJ Stokie, Mashudu, BusiGold, Nele SA, Msongi, Happy Jazzman, and Gontse Levati.

In a Q&A, Sobzeen explains the meaning behind the album title and sound. “iThemba Lami is my first chance to claim my narrative and tell my own story. The visual symbolism in the artwork is deliberate. The chain and cross mirror South Africa’s struggles in the music industry,” he says.

He describes the sound as “Amapiano-Soul meets gospel’s grace, laced with lyrics that expose the industry’s underbelly.” The album is spiritual and candid. Sobzeen addresses themes of exploitation, faith, and fighting to own one’s legacy. He shares openly about how the hit ‘Selimathunzi’ went double platinum while he received no financial benefit. “Why God and music are my only contacts now,” he adds.

Sobzeen also reflects on lessons learned. “I have learned to prioritize my own needs. In the past, people exploited my creativity without credit. I built DJ Stokie’s empire, yet I walked away with no royalties and no fame. Nothing to show for it. The lesson there was to always put myself first.”

The tracklist for iThemba Lami includes:

• Izono – Sobzeen x Pale Moloi ft Msongi
• Somandla – Sobzeen x Msongi ft Nele SA
• Sthandwa Sami – Sobzeen x Mashudu x Happy Jazzman ft Gontse Levati
• iThemba Lami – Sobzeen x BusiGold x Stu ft Dr Thulz
• Amalobolo – Sobzeen x Ssips ft Zee_nhle
• Sponono – Sobzeen x Russell Zuma
• Ngizizwe Kanje – Sobzeen x Zee_nhle ft Nele SA
• Mang’Dakiwe – Sobzeen x DJ Stokie ft Mr Maker
• Ngeke Bak’thande Bonke – Sobzeen x Youme
• Imana – Sobzeen x Deep London ft Casey Ntuli & Pale Moloi
• UThando Luyadura – Sobzeen x Pale Moloi

iThemba Lami marks Sobzeen’s confident emergence as a solo artist. The album blends soulful melodies with raw truths, anchored by his journey through faith and resilience. It sets a new chapter in his career, one where he owns his narrative and sound.