Not yet Uhuru hit maker Letta Mbulu releases Nomali

By Funeka Bambalele

At 82 years young, legendary musician Letta Mbulu has once again graced the music world with her profound artistry, releasing her new EP titled Nomali.

The release of Nomali is not just a celebration of a new album but a testament to Letta Mbulu’s unwavering passion for music and her dedication to engaging with the pressing issues of her time.

As she steps into this new chapter of her artistic journey, audiences and professionals alike are reminded of the power of music to communicate, heal, and inspire, regardless of age or circumstance. The music diva is more than a musician. She is a beacon of resilience and an enduring voice in the realm of artistry.

The music diva last released fresh music in 2007 when she dropped Culani Nami under Sony/BMG. As much as the album reflects the current  time in terms of sound, Letta Mbulu’s mellow signature sound and voice is still there.

Nomali which means the one who has money is released by Universal Music and produced by the renowned Themba Mkhize with co-production from Alexis Faku, Nomali brings together the soulful sounds and powerful messages that have made Mbulu a musical and cultural force for decades. With six beautifully crafted tracks, this EP sees Mbulu blending traditional African elements with Jazz, R& B, and world music, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.

Mbulu hosted a launch at Universal Studios in Rosebank where she spoke about the music, inspiration behind it for the first time. Attendees got to sample Mbulu’s, which is a beautifully crafted album. The listening session/launch was attended by people like the former police commissioner, Riyah Phiyega, Brenda Mtambo, Wanda Baloyi, Buhlebendalo Mda, Zoe Modiga, Kgomotso Moeketse, Nothemba Madumo, Motshabi tyelele, Dineo Langa, various radio deejays and many more. In the album she worked with talented musicians like Billy Monama, Concord Nkabinde,

Leagan Starchild, Linda Skhakhane, Adam Howard, Berwyn Roberts and Thomas Dyani.

Nomali takes listeners on a journey through various themes close to Mbulu’s heart. Each track is a testament to her ability to capture life, beauty, challenges, and joys. The song ‘Sinamanga’ delivers a message about the societal challenges of deceit and lawlessness.

Her latest work captures this sentiment, weaving her personal and cultural roots into every note, and offering both long-time followers and new listeners unforgettable moment.

A veteran artist who first made waves in the music industry decades ago, Letta continues to break barriers, proving that age is no limitation to creativity.

Married to music legend Caiphus Semenya, Mbulu is known for using her pen to speak her mind about social issues affecting the community.

After 26 years in exile forced by apartheid special forces at the time she returned to South Africa and realised that there was no much difference in black people’s lives in terms of advancement. It was then that she composed a song titled Not Yet Uhuru. The song was part of Mbulu’s first album on South African soil of the same title which was released in 1992.

This release is not merely an addition to her impressive discography, but it represents a culmination of her life experiences, enriched by the collaboration she had with the late Quincy Jones. Mbulu’s commitment to crafting meaningful melodies and lyrics resonates strongly with audiences, proving that her voice is as vibrant and relevant as ever.

During the launch Mbulu reflected on the good times while working with Quincy where she learned a lot. She mentioned that they took months recording Roots because the late Jones was a perfectionist.

“By the time we finished I was utterly exhausted. I remember asking him, “when are we finishing recording the song:” and he said this time we are doing the last session of recording. When I listened to the song after mixing, I could not believe that I was hearing my voice. May his soul rest in peace and what I can say is that I have learned a lot from Quincy.”

“Nomali is a tapestry woven with themes that echo the societal challenges of our times. Standout track “Sinamanga” delves into the complexities of deceit and lawlessness, offering listeners a poignant reflection on the moral fabric of society. With her soul-stirring vocals, Letta delivers a powerful message that resonates across generations, shining a light on the struggles that so many face in today’s world.

In Baby Girl, she offers a softer perspective, focusing on the trials and joys of parenthood. This track illustrates Mbulu’s personal journey, weaving together anecdotes that resonate deeply with parents everywhere. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to the bond between a parent and child, capturing both the challenges and the immeasurable love that defines this relationship. Through her soothing melodies, Letta invites her listeners into her world, making them feel the weight of her experiences and the affection she holds for her family.

Additionally, the EP features the uplifting anthem “Friends are for,” celebrating the beauty and power of friendship. This song serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and support in our lives. In an age where isolation can feel overwhelming, Letta’s words serve as a comforting embrace, encouraging listeners to cherish their relationships and recognize the strength found in unity. Her timeless voice, along with the infectious rhythms that accompany the track, breathes new life into the age-old adage that friends truly are for a lifetime.