Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
THE founder of multi-award-winning Imbube group Amaqaqa, Khulekani “Dlodloba” Sibanda has launched a new chapter in his musical career with the release of Umnqobi, the first single off his forthcoming solo EP, Walk Like a Star.
The Filabusi-born musician said the five-track project seeks to push the boundaries of African music by blending traditional Nguni vocals with instruments such as the djembe, guitar, flute and violin.
Built around African rhythms and proverbs that carry life lessons, the EP reflects his desire to create a distinctive sound rooted in the continent’s cultural heritage.
Dlodloba said the project fulfils a musical ambition he had nurtured for years, having previously explored Maskandi on his debut solo album, Shwele Baba, released in 2017 before he founded Amaqaqa.
“In 2017, I wanted to record African rhythms, something that came directly from my heart, but I ended up recording Maskandi on my first solo album, Shwele Baba.
“I wanted to sing something different from Isicathamiya, but still preserve the true essence of African culture. This year, I promised people that I would give them something under Dlodloba Music, which I have done,” he said.
The musician said he opted to release the five songs in phases, beginning with Umnqobi, a track he described as particularly personal.
“Although all the songs come from the deepest part of my heart, Umnqobi is my testimony, my fight and my victory.
“I have been through a lot in the music industry. I have been betrayed, looked down upon and received negative messages, but God has lifted me in ways I could never have imagined,” he said.
Through the single, Dlodloba hopes to inspire young people to remain focused on their ambitions despite criticism and discouragement.
“I want to encourage young boys and girls to have a vision and pursue their dreams. As they work towards their goals, they must not be distracted by what people say behind closed doors. The message is that if you hold on to your dream, you can conquer,” he said.
Dlodloba said the song had received encouraging feedback in Zimbabwe and neighbouring South Africa, where it had been played on radio stations.
Despite venturing into solo work, the musician dismissed suggestions that the project would undermine his commitment to Amaqaqa, the Imbube ensemble he founded.
He described the group as the foundation of his musical career, stressing that the two projects served different but complementary purposes.
“Amaqaqa and Dlodloba are not in competition. They are in alignment. I recorded under Dlodloba Music before I founded Amaqaqa.
“I will always respect my calling through Amaqaqa because it carries the true vision I had for the group. With Dlodloba, I am expressing my feelings and talent through instrumental music,” he said.
Dlodloba described Amaqaqa as the foundation of his musical identity, while his solo project would provide room for experimentation and innovation.
“Amaqaqa is the house. It represents heritage, harmony and ministry to the people. Dlodloba is the new meal served from that same pot, the innovation, the experiment and the sound that pushes our culture forward.
“Amaqaqa will continue touring, teaching and performing, while Dlodloba will be my laboratory for creating new sounds for the next generation,” he said.
For Dlodloba, the solo venture is not a departure from Amaqaqa but an expansion of his musical vision, allowing him to explore new sounds while remaining rooted in the traditions that shaped his career.
