Vusi Nova's releases new single 'Phendula'
This heartfelt ballad is a balm for anyone nursing a broken heart. It captures the raw pain of love lost, but also the hope and healing that follow.
Vusi Nova's music has always been real and relatable, his sound is a unique blend of soul-stirring lyrics, smooth vocals, and gentle melodies.
Phendula stays true to that signature style but feels even more intimate and vulnerable, according to Entertainment SA.
The song dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster of falling in love, facing heartbreak, and asking the tough questions that come with it.
' Phendula was inspired by real heartbreak – those painful moments when love lets you down again and again,' Vusi Nova shared. 'It's about turning that pain into something beautiful and healing through music.'
Fans have already embraced the track since the teaser dropped a few weeks ago.
Many say it feels like Vusi Nova has finally put their heartbreak into words. 'I want people listening to the song and have been heartbroken to feel understood and validated,' he said.
'Even in the sadness, I hope they find comfort and strength, knowing they're not alone.'
When asked about the headspace he was in while writing Phendula , Vusi Nova was candid.
'Then, I was deep in my feelings – hurt, raw, but turning pain into art. Now, I'm healed, stronger, and proud of turning struggle into something beautiful.'
His sound has evolved too. 'Back then, my sound was raw and stripped-down, just me and my emotions figuring it out.
Now, my sound is richer and more layered, but still keeps that realness. It's growth without losing the soul.'
Vusi Nova also opened up about running his own record label. 'It's been liberating but wild. I like building a plane while flying it.
More control means more headaches, but zero regrets. Every win hits deeper because it's yours.'
He described the hustle of funding projects independently in South Africa's competitive music scene. 'I've had to break through gatekeepers without major backing.
Wearing all hats – from A&R to promo – the grind never stops.'
Yet, the freedom to create without compromise keeps him going. 'Dropping music my way and helping other artists shine fuels me. The small wins have been incredibly rewarding.'
This year has been a big one for Vusi Nova. 'Hosting 'The Black Tie' – my first solo show – felt like magic. I'm turning it into an annual vibe.
Watching artists on my label drop albums and singles this summer and seeing them soar is amazing. It feels great to give the streets more music.'
His passion for Afro-soul remains strong. 'It's the sound of my story, my people's struggles, and our joy. Afro-soul isn't just music – it's medicine. When fans say it mends their hearts, that's the mission.'
He believes the genre is flexible yet unbreakable. 'There's room to fuse tradition with tomorrow. That's freedom, and that keeps me motivated.'
With Phendula , Vusi Nova has once again proven why he's a voice for the heartbroken and a beacon of hope for many South Africans. This single is a healing journey set to music.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
2 days ago
- IOL News
Vertex Events acknowledges sound issues at Anthony Hamilton, Joe Thomas Women's Day concert
Musicians Vusi Nova and Anthony Hamilton was among the artists on the lineup for Vertex Events and Soulful Nights Women's Day Concert. Concert organisers Vertex Events and Soulful Nights have released a statement acknowledging the technical disruptions they experienced on their Women's Day concert. The statement recapped the successful concert but also acknowledged that the 'sound quality could have been better'. The lineup for the concert included international stars Anthony Hamilton, Joe Thomas, local stars Vusi Nova, Zonke and Sjava. 'We worked with our highly trusted technical partner, Gearhouse and unfortunately experienced sound disruptions at certain stages of the show,' said Thato Segale, executive director of Vertex Events. 'We were however very glad that our technical partner, together with the international technical teams, swiftly resolved the issues. The sound quality during Anthony Hamiltion's performance was exactly what we strive for: world-class, warm and immersive. That is the standard we aim to deliver from start to finish.'
The Star
6 days ago
- The Star
Labubu toy craze arrives in South Africa with exclusive Soul Gallery drop
Labubu, the viral toy craze captivating collectors worldwide, has officially landed in South Africa - making its debut at Sandton City's iconic Soul Gallery. Known for its curated mix of rare fashion and standout sneakers, the gallery now adds this sought-after collectible to its cultural cachet, signalling a bold new chapter in designer toy culture. Josh Weinberg, the owner of Soul Gallery, shared his excitement with Saturday Star , revealing what motivated him to bring the collection to SA. 'Honestly, it was a no-brainer. We're always hunting for what's next, the rare, the untapped, the cult gems that haven't hit our shores yet. Labubu isn't just a toy; it's a full-blown movement. There's emotion, story, and soul behind each piece. We knew there was a growing appetite for that level of collectible in South Africa, and we wanted to be the ones to spark it,' he stated passionately. Speaking on their commitment to offering exclusive collectibles aligning perfectly with the ethos of the toy's release, he stated, 'Soul Gallery has never been about stocking shelves; we curate experiences. Every item we bring in has a story, a purpose, and a certain magic to it. Labubu fits that vision perfectly. It's niche, it's highly sought-after, and it speaks to a global collector culture that we're helping introduce here. That's what our space in Sandton City is built for: to bring culture to life in a way that feels fresh and intentional.' He also explained the influence of the gallery in shaping and growing the collectible culture in South Africa, further underscoring the essence of understanding the value behind the drops. "We're definitely not just following trends; we're setting them. Before Soul, the idea of luxury streetwear, exclusive kicks, or even designer collectibles at this level wasn't really a thing here. We've opened up a lane for people to access global culture locally, and more importantly, to understand the value behind these drops. We're not just growing the culture; we're shaping the taste.' As for what makes Labubu a coveted item, Weinberg elaborated, 'Labubu's not your average toy; it's got character, a story, and a whole vibe to it. There's something raw and emotional about the design; it's playful but a little mischievous, and that duality resonates with collectors. It's also not mass; it's cult. Owning one feels like being part of a quiet, cool club. And that's what makes it special; it's personal, not commercial.' Looking ahead, Weinberg hinted at what's in store for the collectors frequenting Soul Gallery. 'We've got some wild stuff off our seas; trust me, this is only the beginning. Soul Gallery is already home to names like Goyard, Hermès, Prada, Jacquemus, Valentino, and Bottega, and that's not even the full list. We're also bringing in brands and pieces that South Africa's never seen before. If you're looking for the rare and the real, you'll find it in our Sandton City flagship.' [email protected] Saturday Star
IOL News
6 days ago
- IOL News
Da Capo's journey: from local beats to global stages
Legendary South African DJ and producer, Da Capo, is the debut cover star of Apple Music inaugural Isgubhu DJ Mixs series, cementing his status as one of the world's finest purveyors of Afro-House music. Image: Supplied/Rage Inc Productions South African DJ and music producer Da Capo is not just spinning tracks; he's spinning the narrative for a new generation of African dance music artists making global waves. The legendary DJ and producer, Da Capo, is the debut cover star of Apple Music's inaugural Isgubhu DJ Mix series. 'It's a platform for aspiring DJs and artists. We tell our stories and share our experiences, especially with how far African dance and electronic music have come globally,' he reflects. Once best known for local bangers like 'Found You' and 'Secret ID', Da Capo has since taken his sound international, and the journey hasn't been without its turbulence. Breaking into the European market with his blend of African dance and electronic music wasn't easy. 'Our sound was still very new to a lot of people overseas. But now it's gone mainstream. Seeing my brothers, the pioneers of this sound, playing on global stages is my proudest moment.' Raised in a South African music landscape that reverberated with compilations from the likes of DJ Fresh and Oskido, Da Capo's musical influences are deeply rooted in house culture. 'Back then, those compilation albums had everything, from deep house to Afro house. Over time, I found myself drawn to the Afro side. That rhythm and spirit just pulled at my heart.' He acknowledges the ongoing debate over the blurred lines between subgenres, noting that how one interprets the music depends largely on personal experience. 'There's deep house, Afro house, tech house and people still don't always know what's what. But it's all about how you hear it and how it speaks to you.' In the early 2000s, Da Capo discovered his passion for music production by digging deep into Chicago house and soulful influences from artists like Osunlade, Jihad Muhammad, and Nick Holder. 'We used to buy music on Tracksource and Beatport, long before Apple Music or Spotify. It was a whole era. That's where I learned, where I found my sound.' Fast-forward to today, and producers like Da Capo are no longer hidden behind the scenes. As the music industry has evolved, producers are stepping into the spotlight and rightfully so. 'Back then, people didn't always know who produced what. Now, fans want to see the people behind the sound. They want us to tell our stories too.' Having signed his first record deal at a young age, Da Capo admits he's learned the hard way about the business of music. 'I've had good and bad experiences. But I've taken everything as a learning curve. Now I have a young, dedicated team to handle the business side while I focus on the music.' His latest project, whether you call it an album or a compilation, is a body of work nearly a decade in the making. 'I worked on this for more than seven years, trying to find a new sound. Music changes with the times, and I wanted this project to reflect that evolution.' The album features a diverse range of collaborators, including the likes of Elaine and Mawhoo, artists who have influenced and inspired him deeply. 'I'm a fan of every artist I featured. It was important to work with people who have shaped me and to share that energy.' Da Capo's international tour schedule is packed, from Singapore to New York, and at this point, he doesn't even bother unpacking his suitcase anymore. 'You have to show people overseas that you're worthy of being booked. It's been amazing to tell our story through our music to audiences around the world.' His Isgubhu mix is a testament to that. With a curated set of ten tracks, Da Capo's balanced exclusives with released material, in collaboration with Apple Music's strict curation standards. 'Mixes are storytelling tools. People care about transitions now more than ever. One bad blend, and you're getting roasted online,' he laughs. 'It's not just about popular music, it's about how you piece it together.' And piece it together, he has, Da Capo is making sure the world hears and feels the heartbeat of African dance music. IOL Entertainment
