Singer Lusanda Crowned Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Ambassador Ahead of New Maxi-Single Release
South African singer-songwriter Lusanda has been officially named Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Ambassador of the Month.
The prestigious announcement coincides with the highly anticipated release of her new single, “Lunchbox,” dropping this Friday, 11 September 2026.
The new track serves as the final installment of her three-track maxi-single, By The Time I Wake Up. The project opens with her previous release, “Progress,” and transitions into the fan-favourite title track before concluding with “Lunchbox.”
For Lusanda, the core of her artistry lies in deep connection and emotional honesty.
“I want people to feel something when they hear my voice,” Lusanda says. “I write from things I’ve actually been through, and if my music helps someone feel a little less alone, or helps them heal from something—that’s the whole point for me.”
The EQUAL Africa ambassadorship marks a significant full-circle moment for the rising star. Spotify’s EQUAL programme, which aims to foster equity for women in the music industry, has been foundational to some of the most critical milestones in her career.
“EQUAL is the reason I got to play my first major show here in Johannesburg,” Lusanda shares. “Being part of a programme that actually puts its resources behind women artists has meant everything.”
Beyond funding her first major headline show in Johannesburg, the programme was also instrumental in the recording of her exclusive Spotify Singles session.
Lusanda’s rapid ascent in the music scene is backed by heavy-hitting industry collaborations.
The title track, “By The Time I Wake Up,” was co-written in South Africa alongside acclaimed producer Anoop D’Souza—known for his work with global icons like Tems, Summer Walker, Syd, and Asake—after the duo initially connected in Ghana.
Fans can also expect to hear more of Lusanda across the airwaves soon, with a string of recent and upcoming feature tracks alongside major names like Nasty C & Tellaman, Clxrity, and Dwson.
To celebrate the release, Lusanda will host an intimate, Track-by-Track listening session at Mamakashaka in Braamfontein on Thursday, 17 September 2026.
The event promises to take the audience through the full maxi-single in her own words, complete with exclusive surprises for attendees.
“Lunchbox” and the complete “By The Time I Wake Up” maxi-single will be available on all major streaming platforms starting Friday, 11 September 2026.
