Spha Mdlalose is taking the music home!
The Durban-born artist is gearing up for an electric performance at the University of KZN’s Jazz Centre on April 9.
This will be the first time the artist performs the album with a full band in her home city; a place that Mdlalose says inspired the themes and stories of the debut offering. Ironically too, the album’s title Idleleyekhaya translates to “The way home”.
Indle’eyekhaya which was released in 2019 to much acclaim earned Mdlalose three SAMA (South African Music Awards) nominations and cemented her place in the South African music industry.
The album itself is a soul-stirring fusion of jazz, gospel, and soul, deeply rooted in her South African heritage and eclectic upbringing.
Singing primarily in isiXhosa and her native language of isiZulu, Mdlalose crafts a deeply personal and emotionally rich journey that transcends language- speaking straight to the heart. It is both a tribute to her influences and a reflection on home, family, and identity—most poignantly expressed in D 103, a heartfelt homage to her late grandfather. Supported by an ensemble of top South African musicians, the music moves with an undeniable groove and depth, proving that true artistry knows no borders and that music truly has the power to heal.
Indlel’eyekhaya isn’t just an album—it’s an experience that speaks to the soul. In a world of singers, Mdlalose is a "singer's singer", effortlessly breathing life into every lyric and able to use her instrument to convey emotion, effortlessly. Her voice is distinct and clear; boasting a mezzo soprano range that is captivating and beautiful. She is simply a singer you have to see live, a singer you have to experience. Audiences can expect to be transported, healed and deeply moved by this presentation.
Spha Mdlalose will perform at the UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on April 9, 2025.
Doors open at 17h00, Music starts at 17h30
Tickets R130 (R95 for pensioners & R65 for students). Cash Tickets available at the door subject to availability. Also available on Webtickets: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1564347428
The Centre is located at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus, Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2