Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Thaluso Da Poet is set to release a double-titled album, Thula Sizwe/Umswane Wembababa, in honour of his late mentor, Desire “Moyoxide” Moyo, who died in a car crash on October 10 last year.
The project pays tribute to Moyoxide’s life and legacy and will be officially launched on May 15 at Sabela Studios. The launch event will also feature performances from Moyoxide’s children, Nomalanga Choice and Methembe Oxide Junior.
The album comprises 10 tracks: Umswane Wembababa, Hlala Nami, Intshumayelo Yasentabeni, Kwehlule, Thula Sizwe, Dear Sekasivalo, Imilayo, UBhambo, Asikatholi, and Tribute to Moyoxide, along with a bonus track titled iTherapy.
In an interview, Thaluso said the upcoming project was produced by the late Moyoxide, adding deeper emotional significance to the release.
“The decision to give the album a double title came after we realised that it had gone through several name changes at different stages of production. It was initially titled iTherapy before we later changed it to Umswane Wembababa. All these titles were chosen under the guidance of my late mentor, Moyoxide,” he said.
“After he passed on, I returned to the studio to make the project more reflective of his passing. That is when the title Thula Sizwe came about, as a way of comforting Moyoxide’s followers. With that in mind, I decided to name the album Umswane Wembababa/Thula Sizwe,” said Thaluso.
He said the spirit of collaboration played a key role in bringing the project to life as he worked with several creatives to realise his vision.
“Moyoxide was a great collaborator who groomed many young creatives. He was never discriminatory and worked openly with artistes, both young and old, as long as they shared the same vision.
“As this album is in his honour, I felt it was important to also work with several artistes to bring this big dream to life. I featured Sonkomose, Lewanika and Indlodlo Zamanzi traditional group, creatives who also worked with Moyoxide,” said Thaluso.
The poet said he feels a deep connection to the upcoming album, describing it as one of his best productions.
“The project is more spiritually mature. It carries a strong African sense of belonging, making it a true reflection of our culture,” he said.
