New song ‘Umbayimbayi’ goes gold and platinum in just two weeks

Jabulani Hadebe (Sjava) and Siyabonga Nene (Big Zulu) form the music duo known as Inkabi Zezwe.

The group was established in 2022, and their first single, Umbayimbayi, achieved a number one ranking and went platinum in South Africa.

Umbayimbayi was released on 24 March 2023, as the lead single for the Umkhaba album.

The song Umbayimbayi quickly achieved gold and platinum status two weeks after its release, dominating both radio charts and online music streaming platforms.

The duo, who have won Grammy awards, will release a joint music video with their album in May.

TikTok users used the official audio 110k times

The official audio of the song has been used by TikTok users in their personal videos over 110 000 times.

Fans have demonstrated their creativity by choreographing their own dance moves to the song as part of the Umbayimbayi challenge.

@bigzulu_sa Umbayimbayi Challenge 🔥🔥 #bigzulu #fyp #umbayimbayi #ukhamba ♬ original sound – BigZulu_SA

@bigzulu_sa Umbayimbayi challenge ❤️‍🔥🙏🏿 #bigzulu #fyp #umbayimbayi #ukhamba #sjava #inkabination ♬ original sound – BigZulu_SA

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Inkabi Zezwe

This duo celebrates their shared heritage as Zulu brothers and musicians.

Their music draws from traditional isiZulu forms as well as contemporary styles, with Sjava’s influences including R&B, Afropop and Hip-Hop, while Big Zulu incorporates Hip-Hop and Rap into his work.

This blending of genres creates music that reflects not only their personal experiences but also the contemporary South African culture.

Their latest release delves into themes of love, intimacy, joy, aspiration and community.

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Duo grateful for the support from fans

The artists are thrilled with the positive feedback they have been receiving from the public.

According to them, the project was created with their fans in mind and they are now reaping the rewards of their hard work. Their melodic sound is attracting more listeners to their music.

Speaking to ZAlebs, Big Zulu said everything is going according to plan.

“The love and support we get from the people working on this project means a lot because it gives us musicians confidence that our music is being appreciated. Everything is going as planned,” said Big Zulu.

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According to Sjava, making music requires time, attention, and is a process that should not be rushed.

“Music takes a lot of time and attention. We have always wanted to collaborate but have been waiting for the ideal opportunity.

“The outcomes we have now might not have been possible if we had hurried to collaborate, explained Sjava.

Tour

Starting in June, the duo will embark on a national tour.

The tour will start on 24 June 2023 at Sunbet Arena in Time Square, continue to Grandwest Arena in Grandwest on 29 July, and then to the Big Top Arena in Carnival City on 26 August.

The final stop will be on 3 September, at Hollywood bets Kings Park Stadium.

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