Vimbs Mavimbs Takes the Long Way Home with ‘Love Drive’

Vimbs Mavimbs Takes the Long Way Home with ‘Love Drive.’ – After two decades of living inside the music and behind the curtain, Vimbs Mavimbs steps fully into the light. This, with his highly anticipated debut single, Love Drive. More than a first release, the track is a quiet revelation: a cinematic exhale, released in the month of love, and the opening statement of a new chapter for the seasoned artist finally speaking in his own voice.

Born Thembinkosi Mavimbela in Mpumalanga, Vimbs Mavimbs is a prolific double bassist, composer, bandleader, producer, and musical director. His work is rooted in rich African musical traditions while pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz and experimental sound. Known for his expressive command of the double bass and thoughtful compositions, Mavimbs has built a reputation as a dynamic creative. Leading ensembles, shaping projects, and crafting music that speaks to both heritage and innovation.

More about ‘Love Drive’ and the anticipated Album

With Love Drive, Vimbs Mavimbs arrives not as a newcomer, but as an artist who understands the value of patience and the power of taking the long way home. This is the first of a few singles to be released later this year in anticipation of his debut album Late Bloomer. Love Drive pivots on an intriguing thematic riff in an odd time signature of what Vimbs calls a “broken Twalatsa,” nodding to the popular South African Kwaito dance move.

The analogy turns rhythmic complexity into an invitation to an imperfect, heartfelt sway. Spacious, soulful, and deeply intentional, the track draws from jazz influences. It offers a sonic permission slip to trade stages for highways, deadlines for horizons, and rush for process.

“For years, rest came wrapped in guilt for me. Life moved at an unforgiving tempo of busy seasons and quiet droughts. Somewhere between exhaustion and longing, a melody emerged that gently rewired that belief. That melody became ‘Love Drive’”, said Vimbs Mavimbs.

The release sets the pace for Late Bloomer, Mavimbs’ forthcoming debut album. A project rooted in musicianship, camaraderie, and the philosophy of “late becomings.” Inspired by an eighteen-year journey through trials, growth, and independence, the album celebrates life, African heritage, and transformation. Drawing from jazz tradition while remaining open and inclusive, Late Bloomer is a portrait of becoming. Symbolized by the butterfly: hope, patience, and change.