Asanda Empires ushers Ntombemhlophe into platinum stardom – Asanda Empires is proudly celebrating a defining moment in South African music as its newest star, Ntombemhlophe, sees her hit single “Mama” achieve platinum status, marking not only a personal triumph but a powerful statement about the label’s growing influence in shaping Africa’s next generation of global talent.
Ntombemhlophe, real name Anitha Nizole Slere (25), joins Asanda Empires at a pivotal stage in her career. While “Mama” was released during her time with Sniper Entertainment, the single’s platinum milestone now ushers her into a new chapter under a label determined to build stars with longevity, purpose and international vision.
The song, featuring Tee S Papah and produced by hitmaker Anuza SA, has become a cultural anthem rooted in heritage and emotion. Inspired by the traditional Eastern Cape song “Angalila Umama.” “Mama” blends deep African spirituality with contemporary Amapiano, Afro House and Splash influences. Written by Ntombemhlophe and Tee S Papah, the track’s emotional depth and infectious rhythm have resonated across borders, generating over 600 000 TikTok posts and millions of streams across YouTube, Spotify, Boomplay and Apple Music.
Sniper Entertainment finds treasure at a KFC
Speaking at the Platinum Plaque celebration, Tee S Papah and Anuza SA, both recognised as rising hitmakers in their own right, played a pivotal role in shaping the song’s celebratory yet deeply personal tone. Their musical chemistry helped transform a traditional melody into a modern anthem of gratitude and triumph. Together, the trio crafted a sound that feels both ancestral and global , a formula that Asanda Empires believes represents the future of African music.
Sniper Entertainment shared a heartwarming reflection on how they first discovered Ntombemhlophe at a KFC outlet, long before platinum plaques and international streams.
“We saw her singing and immediately recognised something special. From the very beginning, we knew she had star quality. Her voice carried emotion, strength and authenticity. We believed in her then, and we still believe in her now.”
Sniper Entertainment has expressed full support for her transition to Asanda Empires, adding that they look forward to continued collaboration.
“She may be joining Asanda Empires, but we will continue to work closely with them. We all want to see her win. The goal has always been to build a lasting career.”
Music executive and OpenMic Productions co-founder, Lionel Jamela also offered words of encouragement during this milestone moment. Jamela reminded audiences that sometimes greatness is discovered in the most unexpected places.
“One of my biggest artists, Master KG, who gave the world ‘Jerusalema,’ was also discovered at KFC. Talent doesn’t come from big stages. It comes from within. Ntombemhlophe carries that same hunger and gift. What matters now is guidance, discipline and the right team behind her.”
Asanda Empires – A powerhouse label
That “right team” is now Asanda Empires, a label positioning itself as a powerhouse committed to nurturing authentic African stars. The company’s focus remains clear: build artists who represent culture proudly while competing on a global scale. Ntombemhlophe’s signing signals their intent to invest in artists with strong storytelling, work ethic and international appeal.
For Asanda Empires, the moment was a statement of intent. The label, led by founder and CEO Asanda Mabengwana, has positioned itself as a home for artists whose music carries both cultural weight and emotional depth. Ntombemhlophe’s journey, from humble beginnings to national acclaim,reflects the very ethos the label says it stands for.
“We welcomed Ntombemhlophe into the Asanda Empires family. Her voice, her story and her artistry are exactly what our label stands for. Powerful African music that connects deeply with people. Her journey from humble beginnings to platinum success inspires us all. We are committed to supporting her as she takes her sound to even greater heights.” ~ Mabengwana
About ‘Mama’
Speaking about “Mama,” Ntombemhlophe reflected on the deeply personal inspiration behind the track.
“The song was inspired by a Xhosa traditional song I grew up loving. Every time there was a family gathering, that song touched me deeply from a young age because songs about mothers always felt personal to me, especially since I grew up without mine. I decided to sample the traditional song and turn it into a celebration anthem, a song people can play while celebrating their milestones and achievements.”
More about Ntombemhlophe
Raised by her father after her parents divorced when she was 12, Ntombemhlophe credits her upbringing for shaping her resilience. Her journey from living in a shack in the Eastern Cape to earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with distinction from the University of Johannesburg. Now, achieving platinum success is a testament to perseverance. Under Asanda Empires, Ntombemhlophe’s mission extends beyond charts and numbers.
“I hope to create a legacy of bringing all Africans together through music. When my songs play, I want everyone to dance, laugh and cry together as one.”
