THE FUSE

South African artists Sbahle and Naledi Aphiwe have joined forces for a Valentine’s-inspired Afro-Pop single titled Ngitshele. In an exclusive conversation with OK Mzansi Magazine, Sbahle opened up about their creative connection, the message behind the song and what fans can expect next.

OK Mzansi Magazine Interview Questions

Congratulations on the release of Ngitshele. What inspired the collaboration between you two for this Valentine’s single?

First time I heard Naledi sing I became a fan Instantly, not knowing I’ll meet her and when I did she also voiced out how she loves my music and we agreed on working on something. Although it took a while to actually work but when I started working on ‘Ngitshele’ I knew she was the one I needed on the song and she did not hesitate.

The song explores themes of love, vulnerability and emotional honesty — what message did you want listeners to take from the lyrics?

I wanted all my girls to go out and pursue their love interests, it’s too late now we girls deserve to be loved and waiting on men to make the first move is no longer an option.

How did your creative chemistry develop in studio?

Naledi is such a sweetheart, full of energy. I loved working with her and it was easy because prior to working together we had developed some sort of familiarity amongst each other.

The song blends Afro-Pop with soulful emotion. What sonic direction were you aiming for?

I wanted emotions, I wanted anyone who believes in love to relate instantly the first time they heard the song.

This marks your fourth release under Ziiki Media. How has that partnership influenced your growth?

Honestly, Ziiki could have not come at a better time in my life. I’m blessed to have them in my corner supporting and rooting for me.

Naledi, how does this collaboration reflect your evolution as a rising artist?

I am blessed and I believe this collaboration was a team effort, not only myself and Sbahle but everybody who we worked with was very insightful and helpful into stirring us to finishing this project.

The chorus ‘Dali Ngitshele…’ feels personal. Was it inspired by real life?

I’m a girls girl, my girlies know this. When I wrote this song I wrote it with the intention that some girl out there will take it and use it literally in their life because I know we girls have love interests but the fear of ‘what will people say’ leaves us falling for a person at a distance.

How does this differ from your previous single, Ngiyabheja Ngawe?

It does not differ that much interms of sound however in storytelling, on ‘Ngiyabheja Ngawe. I was speaking in a sense where I’m speaking to my partner and on ‘Ngitshele’ I’m pursuing a potential partner.

What makes this Valentine’s release stand out?

It stands out because the message says ‘Girls let’s go and get our lovers’

What’s next for both of you?

We both working on individual debut albums and mine is scheduled for release this April and Naledi will announce hers pretty soon.

With bold messaging and heartfelt emotion, Ngitshele positions both artists as confident voices in modern Afro-Pop — encouraging women to lead with love, honesty and courage.