SOWETO
Umlazi-born singer, songwriter, and composer Thandeka “De Rose” Cele proudly announces the release of her debut solo single, “Emsotra,” available on all streaming platforms this Friday through Haus of Kulture, distributed by gamma. Africa.
The single marks a bold new chapter in De Rose’s journey, offering the first taste of her forthcoming project, 9 to 5, and setting the tone for her evolution as a solo artist. Following a string of acclaimed collaborations with Sfarzo Tee, DJ Jaivane, Frank Mabeat, Gaba Cannal, and Soa Mattrix, De Rose steps fully into her spotlight — delivering a soulful Amapiano anthem rooted in identity, belonging, and connection.
“Emsotra” tells a heartfelt story inspired by De Rose’s own experiences of finding home away from home — a musical bridge between her Durban upbringing and the vibrant rhythm of Soweto.
“As a girl born and raised in Umlazi, when I went to Soweto (Emsotra) for the first time, I felt like I was still in my hood — just a different language,” shares De Rose. “Besides that, I felt like I belong. Emsotra is home.”
Produced by Thebza and Frank Mabeat, Emsotra captures the essence of De Rose’s artistry — a seamless fusion of soulful chords, deep Amapiano basslines, and hypnotic percussion.
“Thebza and Frank Mabeat made it magical,” she recalls. “I wasn’t feeling well that day, but the moment I stepped to that mic, I knew what I wanted and how I wanted it.”
Her raw, emotive vocal delivery paired with her signature warmth brings the song to life — embodying both the grit and grace that define her sound.
“You can take me out of the ghetto, but you can’t take the ghetto out of me,” De Rose adds.
For De Rose, Emsotra is more than just a title. It’s Soweto slang she encountered often — a word that became symbolic of rhythm, energy, and belonging. “It’s not just a place,” she says. “It’s a feeling. A beat. A sense of home that transcends sound.”
Now officially signed to Haus of Kulture, De Rose continues to carve her own lane as one of South Africa’s most distinctive and soulful Amapiano voices. With over 120,000 monthly Spotify listeners and a growing fanbase across Africa, her authenticity continues to resonate deeply with audiences who crave music that speaks to the heart and moves the soul.
ABOUT THANDEKA “DE ROSE” CELE
Thandeka “De Rose” Cele is a South African singer, songwriter, and composer from Umlazi, Durban. Her sound blends the storytelling depth of soul with the pulse of Amapiano — a reflection of both her upbringing and creative evolution. Recognized for collaborations with Sfarzo Tee, DJ Jaivane, Frank Mabeat, Gaba Cannal, and Soa Mattrix, De Rose’s voice embodies power, warmth, and honesty. Now signed to gamma. Africa, she continues to represent a new generation of South African musicians shaping the future of the continent’s soundscape.
