Spha Mdlalose sings Indlel’ekhaya Tour

Perhaps one of the most iconic voices in the South African jazz scene, Spha Mdlalose is back with a bang! The Durban born singer/ songwriter is set to release new music, the first single after the success of her debut album ‘Indlel’eyekhaya” release in 2019. Mdlalose, who has been steadily making her mark in the industry took a break to focus on having a baby and finishing her Masters degree in 2023. She reflects on this time as necessary as it allowed her to return (to music making) with a renewed sense of purpose and perspective. Mdlalose kicked off her return with a successful performance at the Joy of Jazz stage wowing fans with her undeniable vocal prowess and charismatic stage presence.

This year, she plans on performing on more stages and is thrilled for her upcoming tour that will include Johannesburg, Durban and Pretoria and will span over the months of March and April. This is an exciting time as it strategically coincides with the release of an forthcoming offering, a single titled “Ithemba” which Mdlalose recorded in 2024. The tour marks a series of firsts for the artist too; Her performances in Durban for instance, will mark the first time the singer will perform the album in front of her home crowd, accompanied by a full band. This is particularly special as much of Mdlalose’s themes and stories are inspired by her childhood which she spent in the Durban township of Umlazi.

In this way, the tour is a celebration and an ode to those who have paved the way for her.

In 2019, Spha released her 3 time South African Music Awards (SAMA) nominated album, “Indlel’eyekhaya,” to much acclaim. The offering perfectly showcases her diverse musical influences and is praised for its emotive depth and authenticity. In a world of singers, Mdlalose is a “singer’s singer”, effortlessly breathing life into every lyric and able to use her instrument to convey emotion. Her voice is distinct and clear; boasting a mezzo soprano range that is captivating and beautiful. Mdlalose is simply a singer you have to experience live!

The tour is funded by Concerts SA Mobility and is courtesy of the Festival Enterprise Catalyst (FEC) collective comprising the National Arts Festival, Concerts SA, SAMRO, NATi, the Tribuo Fund, the Klein Karoo Kunstefees, Aardklop, Woordfees, and Suidoosterfees. Together, the FEC has secured support from the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund to ensure that cultural work opportunities and mobility are encouraged and sustained.