Big Xhosa tells men to open their wallets with new single
JOHANNESBURG: South African genre-bending artist Big Xhosa has released his latest single, Wapheni Imali, a playful track that tells men to spoil their women with money and gifts.
The song, which features Lwando, blends Mbaqanga, Maskandi, Afro-soul and Hip-Hop, showcasing Big Xhosa’s versatility while delivering a simple and cheeky message.
“Wapheni Imali” translates to “give her money”, with the artist urging men to show appreciation to women by opening their wallets.
“I’m simply telling them to spoil their women and shower them with money and gifts,” Big Xhosa said.
The artist, whose real name is Sesethu Myeki, first rose to prominence through a viral diss track that mentioned several prominent South African rappers.
The breakthrough opened doors for him, leading to collaborations with artists including Big Zulu, Cassper Nyovest, Major League DJz, Robot Boii and Janta.
Big Xhosa said the viral success allowed him to turn his passion for music into a career, but building a sustainable music business without financial backing has remained one of his biggest challenges.
“The challenges have always been not having a record label or financial support behind the talent. That restricts one from bringing the full vision to life,” he said.
The new single also marks the beginning of a new chapter for the artist, following his management deal with Asanda Empires.
Naledi Zibi, talent manager at Asanda Empires, said the company wants to help Big Xhosa grow without taking away the unconventional qualities that have made him stand out.
Big Xhosa said he is hoping the partnership will become a major success.
“I’m hoping for a fruitful partnership, and that we become the biggest in the game. Watch out!” he said.
Despite the playful message of Wapheni Imali, Big Xhosa said his current musical direction is serious, marking a shift from the humour that characterised some of his earlier work.
He urged listeners to take the song as a celebration of women and appreciation.
“Men, give women money. Women learn to ask men for money!” he said.
He added that women should be treated with love and appreciation because they are “the greatest and the best gift God gave to men.”
For Big Xhosa, Wapheni Imali is another step in an evolving career that continues to challenge expectations while embracing different sounds and ideas.
