SA: Sjava releases new album Isibuko

Isibuko – a Zulu term for ‘mirror’ – follows the successful release of his 2020 EP Umsebenzi and the deluxe version released in 2021. Some of the featured artists include Emtee, Sampa the Great, Ntokozo Mkhize, Saudi, Delayde and Qwabe Twins.

As the name suggests, the album reveals a deeply introspective side to the artist as he takes the listener on a journey of bare and raw emotions.

“This album obviously is a reflection of my journey over the last few years and speaks to my experiences and growth as a person and as a musician,” Sjava said. “Musically, it is a continuation of the process that began with the Umsebenzi EP/Deluxe and I hope my supporters enjoy it.

“I know it’s been a while, but I trust that the album will be worth the wait. Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last eight years of my career, and I look forward to continuing this musical journey together in the future.”

Aside from Sjava’s long-time producer and partner Ruff, Delayde and Webmoms also contributed to the album. Sjava said the album was conceived during a February 2022 retreat at Antbear Eco Lodge in the Okhahlamba Mountains. It was here that Sjava, Ruff, Delayde, Webmoms and Vuyo Manyike conceptualised the essence of the project and recorded the initial music and vocals for the album.

“‘Amavaka’ describes how self-doubt and fear leads to self-sabotage, while ‘Thixo’ is a haunting prayer, a plea to God for grace,” he said. “Family relationships and hardships are vividly described in ‘Akabuye’ and ‘Kube Ngangazi’”.

The album rounds off well with upbeat tracks such as ‘My Life’ and ‘Isoka’ as well as feel-good songs like ‘Ungavumi’ and ‘Ubuhle Bendalo’.

Born Jabulani Hadebe in 1983, Sjava grew up in Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, then moved to Johannesburg during his teenage years where he absorbed the influences of the city. His experience in these two very worlds left a lasting impression on him, both as a man and as an artist.

Sjava has also appeared in several TV drama films and series, including uGugu no Andile and Zone 14. After appearing on the hit song ‘Ameni’ in 2015, he began to attract attention for his vocal skills.

His debut album Isina Muva (2016) showcased his skill of fusing the two worlds residing within him – rural KwaZulu-Natal and urban Johannesburg – and creating an emerging sound with elements of maskandi, isicathamiya, mbaqanga, hip hop, trap, R&B and soul.

In 2018, Sjava was featured on Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy-nominated album Black Panther. He has also received a BET Award for Best New International Act for his sophomore album Umqhele. His first EP, Umphako, featured the hit song ‘Abangani’.