Acclaimed South African singer-songwriter Rethabile Khumalo has officially released her highly anticipated third studio album, Kwelizayo.
The project serves as an emotional and deeply personal tribute to her late mother, the legendary musician Winnie Khumalo.
Now available for pre-save ahead of its official release tomorrow, Kwelizayo marks a defining moment in Rethabile’s career as she opens up about grief, healing, resilience, and self-discovery through her music.
The album is led by the powerful focus single, “Bagolo”, a track that captures the emotional depth and sonic direction of the entire project.
Developed over several months following the passing of her mother, the album captures Rethabile at her most vulnerable and authentic.
Through soulful storytelling, rich African sounds, and emotionally driven songwriting, Kwelizayo offers listeners a journey of love, pain, hope, and spiritual growth.
The project embraces South Africa’s cultural diversity through the use of isiZulu, isiXhosa, and Sepedi, creating a body of work that resonates across generations and communities. One of the album’s most emotional moments includes a special, pre-recorded contribution from Winnie Khumalo, symbolising the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter while honouring Winnie’s enduring musical legacy.
Speaking on the release, Rethabile said:
“This album is more than music for me; it is healing, it is legacy, and it is love. I have spent time rediscovering myself after losing my mother, and Kwelizayo became part of that process. Everything I do moving forward is to honour her and make you proud.”
The release follows Rethabile’s continued rise within South Africa’s music industry, following chart-topping successes including “Umlilo” alongside DJ Zinhle and Mvzzle, as well as the platinum-certified hit “Ntyilo Ntyilo” featuring Master KG. Now independently signed under the Winnkay Record Label, Rethabile continues to evolve creatively while cementing her position as one of the country’s most impactful young voices.
Kwelizayo stands as more than just an album; it is a tribute, a healing process, and a celebration of legacy, womanhood, and strength.