Durban, South Africa — South African actress, DJ and musician Mbalenhle Mavimbela has officially unveiled her long-awaited debut EP, NGOKWAMI, marking a significant milestone in her ever-evolving creative journey. Now available on all major digital streaming platforms, the project introduces audiences to a deeply personal and authentic side of the multi-talented entertainer.
Known and celebrated for her captivating performances on screen and her vibrant presence behind the DJ decks, Mavimbela now confidently steps into the spotlight as a recording artist. NGOKWAMI serves as both an introduction and a reintroduction—revealing an artist whose music is rooted in honesty, vulnerability and lived experiences.
The title, NGOKWAMI, reflects Mavimbela’s commitment to telling her story in her own voice. Through the EP, she explores themes of personal growth, love, heartbreak, healing and self-discovery, inviting listeners into the most intimate chapters of her life. She describes the project as “opening up my diary and allowing people into my personal journey.”
“This EP has lived in my heart for a long time,” says Mavimbela. “Finally sharing it with the world feels incredibly special. I wanted people to experience another side of who I am—not only as an actress or a DJ, but as a musician with a story to tell.”
Unlike her previous standalone releases, NGOKWAMI presents a cohesive body of work where every track contributes to one larger narrative. The project showcases richer production, more intentional song writing and a fearless willingness to experiment with new musical textures while remaining true to her identity.
1. Firstly, congratulations on your latest Debut EP, NGOKWAMI. How does it feel to finally release this highly anticipated body of work?
Thank you so much! I’m feeling grateful, relieved, and incredibly excited. NGOKWAMI has lived in my heart for a long time, so finally sharing it with the world feels like opening up my diary and allowing people into my personal journey. I’m proud of what we’ve created, and I’m happy that my supporters finally get to experience it.
2. What was the vision behind NGOKWAMI, and what story were you hoping to tell through this project?
The vision behind NGOKWAMI was to introduce myself fully into the music space with a project that reflects different chapters of my life. It tells the story of my personal growth, the love I’ve experienced, the heartbreak I’ve overcome, and the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way.
This debut EP is also my way of reintroducing myself to the world. While many people know me as an actress and a DJ, I wanted this project to reveal another side of who I am through music. It’s honest, vulnerable, and a true reflection of my journey and my identity as an artist.
3. You’ve released several singles before. What makes NGOKWAMI different from your previous releases?
This is by far the most personal project I’ve ever created. In the past, I was experimenting with individual songs, but with NGOKWAMI, every track connects to tell one complete story. The songwriting is more intentional, the production is richer, and I challenged myself creatively by exploring new sounds, collaborations, and musical textures. It still feels like me—but this time, it’s a version of me with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
4. Which track or tracks do you think listeners will connect with the most? Are there any personal favourites on the EP?
I honestly believe listeners will connect deeply with “Kuwe” because its message is so relatable. We live in a time where relationships can be complicated and, unfortunately, love has become quite toxic for many people. I think a lot of listeners will see themselves in that story.
The song also has an upbeat energy with strong Maskandi influences, which I know South Africans really appreciate. Personally, I love every song on the project because each one captures a different emotion and moment in my journey. There truly is something for everyone.
5. What was the creative process behind the EP like, and what moments stand out the most?
The creative process was incredibly fulfilling because it allowed me to push myself beyond my comfort zone and express my musical preferences in every aspect of the project. The studio became a second home.
Some of my favourite memories were the late-night recording sessions, the deep conversations about lyrics, and the laughter I shared with my incredible all-female team. Of course, there were moments when our different moods came into play, but those moments only made the experience more authentic and enjoyable. It was a beautiful environment built on creativity, trust, and genuine passion.
6. The EP features collaborations with several well-known artists. What was that experience like?
Whenever you begin a project, you naturally have a list of artists you’d love to work with. However, I learned that when you allow the music to lead, everything falls into place exactly as it should.
Working with artists I genuinely respect challenged me creatively and helped me grow. Every collaborator brought their own unique flavour to the project, but we all shared the same goal—to create music that felt authentic and true to the spirit of NGOKWAMI. It was never about chasing big names; it was about finding real chemistry and making meaningful music together. I learned so much throughout the process, and I’m excited to collaborate with even more artists in the future.
7. Lastly, what message would you like to share with everyone who is about to listen to NGOKWAMI?
To everyone who has supported me, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your love and encouragement mean more than you’ll ever know.
NGOKWAMI is my gift to you. I hope you find yourself in these songs—that you dance to them, cry with them, heal through them, and create beautiful memories with them. This is only the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my career, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with all of you.
Please keep streaming the EP, share it with the people you love, and let me know which song speaks to your heart the most. I love you all, and I promise… I’m only getting started. 🤍
With NGOKWAMI, Mbali Mavimbela confidently establishes herself as one of South Africa’s most exciting multi-hyphenate talents, proving that her artistry extends far beyond television screens and DJ booths. The EP offers a refreshing blend of heartfelt storytelling, rich musicality and emotional authenticity, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting future in music.
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