Loyiso Bala Returns to His Roots with New Single That RnB
SA Music Magazine | 11.02.2026 18:49
Loyiso Bala has officially stepped back into the sound that first defined his career with the release of his new single That RnB. He describes the track as the first step in a new chapter, one that reflects who he is today and sets the tone for what lies ahead. After more than fifteen years without releasing a full R&B and pop album, Bala’s return is not driven by nostalgia but by growth and clarity. Over the past decade and a half, he focused on fatherhood, family life, furthering his studies and deepening his spiritual journey. Those experiences reshaped his creative outlook and prepared him for what he calls the right season to return to R&B music.
Bala explains that he views life and creativity in seasons, and timing has always mattered in his decisions. Although he often felt the pull to return to R&B, he believes he was not fully ready until now. He says that alignment and clarity were previously missing, and that this new phase feels intentional and grounded in love. At the same time, his audience never stopped asking for R&B from him. The consistent demand, paired with his personal readiness, confirmed that this was the right moment to release That RnB.
Sonically, That RnB leans into romance, nostalgia and emotional connection while staying rooted in the present. Bala maintains that his artistic identity has always been built on honesty rather than trends. He believes his brand is stronger than any single genre, and that authenticity allows listeners to connect whether the sound feels classic or current. Instead of trying to recreate past hits or follow industry shifts, he focused on expressing his truth. That commitment to honesty shapes both the sound and message of the single.
A key element of this return is his reunion with longtime collaborator Crighton Goodwill. The two have been close friends since their teenage years at the Drakensberg Boys Choir, and their creative partnership spans decades. Goodwill produced That RnB, continuing a working relationship that has shaped much of Bala’s discography. Written by Derek Masvosvere and produced by Goodwill, the track carries a sense of continuity that longtime fans will recognise. Bala values the deep trust and understanding they share, describing it as essential at this stage of his career.
The single builds on his gradual reintroduction to R&B, including the 2023 release Do It Again featuring Gigi Lamayne. That collaboration reminded him of why he first fell in love with the genre and reignited his commitment to it. Now, That RnB lays the groundwork for a full R&B album planned for release this year. Bala says the upcoming project will be story driven and rooted in lived experience, exploring themes of love, longing, reflection and self discovery. He views the album as an invitation for listeners to revisit familiar emotions while embracing new ones shaped by growth.
Beyond music, Loyiso Bala continues to maintain a strong presence in broadcasting and media. He serves as business manager for SABC radio stations Umhlobo Wenene and Tru FM, reaching millions of listeners across South Africa. He previously led TBN Africa as channel director and has earned multiple South African Music Awards and Metro FM awards throughout his career. Despite his achievements across industries, That RnB signals a deliberate return to the core of his artistry. With this release, Bala brings the focus back to love, growth and a sound that still feels like home.