SA: Jaiva Zimnike releases tenth solo album ‘Iksasa Alaziwa’

Translated as ‘The Future Is Unknown’, the album draws on maskandi’s storytelling traditions, combining guitar-led compositions with contemporary influences. It reflects on personal experiences and the lessons that shape people’s lives while retaining the traditional elements associated with the genre.

The album’s lead single, ‘Ngifuna Wena’, features South African artists MaWhoo and Mjolisi. The song explores love, reconciliation and the possibility of rebuilding a relationship after past difficulties. It combines Zimnike’s guitar arrangements with Mjolisi’s vocals and MaWhoo’s soulful delivery.

Other collaborations on the album include Mjolisi on ‘Umlabalaba Wothando’, Njabulo Langa on ‘Nganginganqabile’ and Gatsheni on ‘Dlala Ngibone’. Falabo, Sminofu, Mnyovu, Somtwana, Shilisi and Kwazi Nsele also feature on the project.

Known as Uthisha Wentambo, meaning ‘The Teacher of the Guitar’, Zimnike is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, songwriter and producer. He began his musical career under the mentorship of maskandi musician Umqgumeni iBhova, initially working as a dancer before developing his skills as a guitarist and performer.

His work extends beyond his solo recordings to production and collaborations with artists including Mthandeni SK, Menzi, Izingane Zoma, Khuzani, Mjolisi and Gatsheni. His previous albums include Isikole Sengoma (2017), Hamba Fish (2020), Bangihlinza Ngiphila (2023) and Sibambane Ngezandla (2025). The latter featured Mthandeni SK and Ntante Mmala.

Zimnike also performs with his maskandi group, Ama AK47. In 2026, he participated in Durban Media House’s Digital Maskandi Vol. 1 project, appearing on ‘Pain’ with Jesse Clegg and ‘Joburg’ with Shwi Mantombazane. The project brought maskandi into collaboration with artists from other South African musical styles.

His latest album also reflects his involvement in its production. Zimnike is credited with lead guitar, lead and backing vocals, composition and production. He worked with producer Mthethwa Njoko, bassist Celumusa Zuma, concertina players Thuthani Ndlovu and Mashansi Mjiyakho, and keyboardist Jay Jay Mbuthuma. Recording took place at Emandleni Studio and Takk Studio.

With ‘Iksasa Alaziwa’, Zimnike adds to a discography spanning several years of work in Maskandi. The album brings together established collaborators and performers from different generations, while maintaining the guitar arrangements and storytelling traditions central to his music.