Freshlyground Make a Powerful Return with New Music and a New Voice

Freshlyground shaped South African music with hits that travelled through generations. Songs like Do Bee Do, Nomvula and I’d Like became staples on school runs and long road trips. When the group announced their split in 2019, fans felt a real loss. Zolani Mahola moved into her solo career and the future looked uncertain for the rest of the band.

By 2025, the remaining members realised they still loved making music together. They missed the chemistry, the shared creative process and the energy of playing live. They said the demand for the band never faded. That support, paired with their continued respect for one another, pushed them to launch a full comeback. They described their return as a chance to bring a fresh voice and renewed sound to the scene.

During their five year break, members explored new paths. Some pursued studies. Others focused on businesses or spent time with their families. Several worked on separate music projects. The time apart helped them return with clarity and hunger.

Their comeback arrives with a new single titled Jabula. It features their new lead vocalist, Mbali Makhoba from Cape Town. She joined the industry early and signed to Dreambox Studios at 15. She shared that she did not know Freshlyground before her audition. A mutual connection set up the meeting. She auditioned by singing I’d Like for bassist Josh. The band liked her tone and invited her to rehearse with them. She fit in quickly.

Even with the warm welcome, Makhoba felt the weight of joining a legendary group. She said she has no intention of becoming the next Zolani Mahola. She explained that every artist is unique. Her goal is to stay true to her own identity rather than imitate a predecessor. She added that most fans have been supportive, even though some people resist change.

Her sound reflects the music she grew up with. Bob Marley, Burning Spear, Culture, Joseph Hill and Lauryn Hill shaped her voice. She also grew up in Imizamo Yethu in Hout Bay, a community filled with art and cultural expression. She said the environment helped her explore different parts of herself. She sees music as healing and purposeful. That belief continues to guide her work with the band.

Makhoba co-writes with her bandmates and focuses on melody. The process challenges her and helps her grow. She said she feels free for the first time in a long time and enjoys having the space to develop her ideas.

Freshlyground delivered their first major show since the hiatus at the Kirstenbosch Summer Series. The crowd of 5000 gave the group a strong welcome. Makhoba felt nervous but excited. She looks forward to more shows, including a return to Kirstenbosch in January.

The band is working on a new album and preparing for a national and European tour. Fans can expect a diverse range of sounds on the project. The album blends Western, African and rock influences. The group aims to create something that appeals to listeners who enjoy varied styles and rich musical textures. Freshlyground’s return marks a new chapter. The band stands on a legacy that shaped South African pop culture, yet they move forward with new energy, a new voice and a fresh vision for the future.