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Ami Faku heals with new single Lala Ngoxolo

22 jan 2021 - 12:03

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

Ami Faku is one of South Africa’s most hardworking musicians. Her persistence for success has seen the Afro-soul artist’s music making big waves beyond the country’s borders. Last year, she won various awards, including the Female Artist of the Year accolade at the South African Music Awards with her debut album Imali. Her music and many collaborations went gold and platinum and she was one of the most streamed South African artists on platforms like Spotify and Deezer.

Ami Faku.

It's barely the end of January and Faku is back with a new single featuring local rapper Emtee. Titled ‘Lala Ngoxolo’ (Rest in Peace), the song will have the singer’s name on fans’ lips well into 2021. The composition features a trap beat, sparkly keys and Faku’s catchy vocal phrasing.

“Having Emtee on the song was truly the best decision because I am a big fan of his work and I felt that he would be perfect for this song,” Faku told Music In Africa. “Lastee, the producer, had the instrumental ready and played it for me in one studio session. I fell in love with it immediately and knew I wanted to have Emtee on it.”

‘Lala Ngoxolo’ was ’inspired by longing for a loved one’

Connection is a powerful and necessary aspect in collaborations, and this can be felt in the new release. “I would say working with someone you connect with musically is always the best,” Faku said. “I've learnt a lot through collaboration and working with talented people allows me to learn new things about myself.

Addressing the theme of the song, Faku said: “I'm asking a loved one to rest. I'm letting them know that their presence is missed and it is no longer the same without them. It is inspired by longing for a loved one, something I am sure we can all relate to.”

Music therapy

Faku hopes that the song will help those dealing with loss to overcome their sorrow. Using music to improve health is well documented and the singer believes that ’Lala Ngoxolo’ has the capacity to do just that.

“I hope that people can find healing and remind them that they are not alone. I hope they can find closure and comfort it brings them closer to finding peace with any hurt they are holding on to.”

The single comes after Faku’s nomination in the Best Alternative category at the 2021 MTV Music Awards, which takes place in Kampala, Uganda, on 20 February. Faku, who is competing against big acts like Adenkule Gold (Nigeria), Simi (Nigeria), Amaarae (Ghana), Afrotronix (Chad) and Matata (Kenya), says the nomination is a huge boost for her career.

“It is an honour to be representing South Africa on the continent’s stage. I think it means my hard work is paying off. I am grateful for my team Vth Season because first of all they believe in me and my ability and secondly they know what I want and are helping me carry out the vision I have for my career,” she said.

Listen to ‘Lala Ngoxolo’ below: