Zakes Bantwini, Sting collaborate on Afro-house rework of classic hit Desert Rose

The updated version reinterprets the track through an Afro House lens, blending elements of the original with contemporary South African electronic production. The release marks a cross-generational and cross-continental collaboration between the two artists.

‘Desert Rose’, released in 1999, became an international success, known for its fusion of Western pop and North African musical influences. The track gained global recognition and was accompanied by a widely circulated music video featuring Sting travelling through desert landscapes.

The new version sees Bantwini introduce Afro-house rhythms and production styles that have gained international prominence in recent years, particularly within global electronic music scenes.

Speaking about the collaboration, Bantwini described the project as a significant milestone in his career.

“It’s one of the biggest songs in Sting’s catalogue, and I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to work with him or reimagine something so central to his legacy,” Zakes Bantwini said. “It is one of the greatest honours of my career, after winning a Grammy, to be trusted with this moment. I’m deeply grateful to everyone involved.”

The collaboration comes amid growing international visibility for African electronic music, with Afro-house increasingly featured on global festival circuits and dance platforms.

Industry observers note that such cross-border collaborations reflect a broader trend of African producers gaining greater influence in shaping global music production and sound design.

Bantwini, who was born in KwaMashu, Durban, is regarded as one of South Africa’s leading figures in dance music. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he has released a series of commercially successful tracks including ‘Bum Bum’, ‘Wasting My Time’ and ‘Osama’. He has also received multiple South African Music Awards and a Grammy Award for ‘Bayethe’.

The artist continues to expand his work across music and cultural initiatives, contributing to the international profile of South African dance music.

Contributor: Wandile Moloi