De Mthuda Sets the pace with ‘Gijima’ ft. Zawadi Yamungu
The powerhouse producer’s latest album arrives today! Packed with bold collaborations and future forward Amapiano sounds...
De Mthuda Sets the pace with ‘Gijima’ ft. Zawadi Yamungu – Renowned South African producer and pioneer of the Amapiano sound, De Mthuda, is back with his most anticipated body of work to date! The self-titled album ‘Mthuthuzeli‘. A masterclass in musical evolution, the album is a bold statement of intent that honours his roots propelling the genre into new terrain.
More about ‘Gijima’ ft. Zawadi Yamungu
Among the project’s many gems is ‘Gijima’, featuring rising vocalist Zawadi Yamungu. ‘Gijima’ is a high-energy track built for global dancefloors. From the underground clubs of Johannesburg to the summer terraces of Ibiza. Steeped in rhythm and cultural pride, ‘Gijima’ is a celebration of movement, identity, and sonic exploration. The track pulses with urgency and soul. Layered with Zawadi’s emotive vocals and a bold, repetitive chorus that honours her Zulu heritage while commanding international appeal.
“Gijima means ‘run’ and that’s what this song is doing,” says De Mthuda. “It’s running with energy, with pride, with sound. Zawadi gave it a spirit I’ve never heard before. It feels African, but it’s ready for the world.”
On ‘Mthuthuzeli’, De Mthuda leans deeper into his reputation as a trailblazer. From his genre-defining hits on ‘The Landlord‘ to soul-stirring soundscapes of ‘Ace of Spades‘, and the fearless experimentation of ‘Baba Yaga‘, he’s continually expanding the possibilities of Amapiano.
His past collaborations “John Wick” and ‘Abekho Ready (Maplankeng Reshuffle)’ with Sir Trill, to “Shesha Geza” with Njelic, have become cultural landmarks. Yet it’s his relentless innovation, that cements his role as one of the genre’s most vital architects.
More about De Mthuda’s ‘Mthuthuzeli’ Album
On ‘Mthuthuzeli‘, he doubles down on that legacy. Crafting an album that transcends borders and genres while remaining deeply rooted in the soul of South African music. From the Afro-jazz fusion of the intro Classic Wave to the subtle Maskandi textures of iLanga (feat. Nia Pearl & Tman Express) and Weekend Aziwe (feat. Aymos), De Mthuda weaves heritage into a truly global soundscape.
Tracks like Diwa Kae and Imikhuleko (feat. Sam Deep, Mr Brown & Baby SON) pulse with a Latin American flair. A bold choice that expands the album’s reach without compromising its authenticity. Meanwhile, the four-by-four House rhythms of Sukuma (feat. Murumba Pitch & Major League), Vhamba Nawe (feat. Tman Express), and the standout Gijima are primed for the international stage, signalling De Mthuda’s global ambitions for the genre.
‘Mthuthuzeli’ embraces emotion…
The album also embraces emotion with the soulful trio ‘Emakhaya’, ‘Baninzi’ (both featuring Mthunzi), and ‘Wena Baby’ (feat. Sino Msolo), where De Mthuda’s talent for emotionally resonant production shines brighter than ever. On ‘Morena’ (feat. Acatears), he returns to the iconic log drum. This brings a Sotho gospel-inspired anthem. A bold and reverent blend of spiritual energy and Amapiano rhythm.
At the heart of this expansive journey is ‘Gijima‘, a track that captures the spirit of ‘Mthuthuzeli.‘ Urgent, soulful, proudly African, and globally minded. Zawadi Yamungu brings raw power and refined control to the track, her performance bridging the spiritual and the sensual, rooted in her lineage while reaching beyond borders.
“This album is the journey. It’s where I started, where I am, and where Amapiano is going next.” ~ De Mthuda
More than just a collection of tracks, ‘Mthuthuzeli‘ is a statement! A bold step forward for a producer who continues to shape the genre from the inside out. With this album, De Mthuda doesn’t just ride the Amapiano wave, he drives it.
‘Gijima‘ and the full ‘Mthuthuzeli‘ album is available on all major digital platforms from today, 30 April 2025.
De Mthuda isn’t chasing trends. He’s making them. And ‘Mthuthuzeli‘ is the proof.
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