Online Reporter
Veteran singer celebrates resilient women with latest anthem
MZANSI music icon Zola 7 says there’s no such thing as retirement for a true artiste.
He told the Daily Sun this as he prepares to release his new single, She Nailed It (Amazipho), on 31 July.
The 49-year-old Zola, whose real name is Bonginkosi Dlamini, rose to fame in the early 2000s with his raw township storytelling, socially conscious lyrics and platinum-selling albums.
Beyond music, he became one of South Africa’s most recognisable TV personalities through his hit SABC1 show Zola 7, which changed lives by helping communities in need.
His career has also included acting, philanthropy and youth empowerment, cementing his legacy as one of the country’s most influential entertainers.
Despite changes in the music industry, Zola believes every generation has something meaningful to contribute.
“Every generation has their own story to tell,” he said when asked whether today’s artistes have lost the social consciousness that defined his era. The veteran musician also dismissed suggestions that older artistes should step aside for younger talent.
“There’s no such thing as retirement if you are an artiste. The next generation will learn from music. We still listen to Stimela like it was released yesterday. Besides, it’s not like I’m a boxer,” he said.
Produced by acclaimed hitmaker Almotie Mtombeni, popularly known as Alie Keys, She Nailed It (Amazipho) is an anthem celebrating resilient women. Zola said the inspiration came naturally.
“First, I never left. I’m surrounded by powerful women who run my company, down to my crazy housekeeper,” he said.
Reflecting on his own journey through public success and personal challenges, Zola believes his experiences have shaped him into a stronger artist.
“It can only be growth and that growth is from thorough travelling across the continent,” he said.
Looking ahead, Zola hopes She Nailed It (Amazipho) will leave a lasting impression, just as many of his previous songs have done.
“People always tell me about my songs and the impact they have had in their lives. So, we’re going to talk for the next 25 years again,” he added.
— Daily Sun
