Mjabulisi – Shembe

Mjabulisi has released his album “1 Minutes Away,” and after listening to it over the weekend, we have identified our favorite track: “Shembe.”

The Maskandi music of the early 2000s sounds quite different from what is produced today. Fortunately, the original melodic essence has been preserved, as emerging artists like Mjabulisi have revitalized this classic sound and refined it in significant ways.

Maskandi’s appeal within the Zulu community can be attributed to its strong cultural roots and unique melodies. Removing these elements would result in a sound that strays far from the authentic Maskandi style.

With “Shembe,” Mjabulisi has presented a song that genuinely embodies the genre, showcasing his artistic growth and his comprehensive understanding of the Maskandi sound and its various musical elements. For those curious about his album “1 Minutes Away,” this track offers an excellent preview.