There is life after parliamentary politics for Ringo as the ballads star releases new album Ikhwelo
By Funeka Bambalele
Ringo Madlingozi’s comeback album, Ikhwelo marks a significant moment in the South African music industry, as one of its most beloved and respected artists makes his triumphant return.
The music legend with a career spanning almost three decades has enjoyed popularity as king of ballads in South Africa and touched the hearts of millions of fans across the country and beyond. Drawing inspiration from his own life experiences, as well as the world around him, the legend delivers a powerful and emotive collection of songs that are sure to resonate with fans old and new. With Ikhwelo, Madlingozi proves once again why he is considered a musical icon in South Africa.
Having dropped his last album nine years-ago, Madlingozi returns with a 12th offering which comes after an exciting journey, exploring politics and even serving as a Member of Parliament. Throughout his career, Madlingozi has not only entertained audiences with his music but has also used his platform to address important social issues.
From advocating for human rights to promoting unity and love, his music carries a message of hope and positivity that has touched the lives of many. His influence extends beyond the music industry, as he continues to inspire a new generation of artists and fans with his timeless sound and unwavering commitment to his craft.
Known for his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating performances, Madlingozi who turns 61 in December, continues to showcase his incredible talent, passion for music, and dedication to his craft. Ikhwelo, which refers to a call to action features a mix of soulful ballads, upbeat tracks, and heartfelt lyrics that showcase Madlingozi’s musical versatility.
With the release of IKHWELO, Ringo Madlingozi once again proves why he is considered a musical maestro in South Africa. As he returns to the music spotlight, Ringo Madlingozi reminds us why he is a true icon in the industry.
Madlingozi explains the music on “Ikhwelo is a clarion call, calling all people to love one another, tolerate one another, believe in each other, protect and build one another. Ikhwelo is a call that I have realised through my musical journey that we need to be talking about these things – we always go around them – the unity that we need as a people.”
“While Ikhwelo is an album that encourages self-love and advocating self-dignity, there
are songs which are affirmations of the best attributes we could all adopt while other songs bring more humorous sentiments. Some songs ask questions, to those who have given themselves leading positions to the masses, about upholding and building a strong nation among the global village.”
Ikhwelo is packed with delightful songs like Ufikile Ekuseni, which carries a similar message like Ekuseni {Umthandile Ekuseni}, a song he released in 2006.
Madlingozi explains the song, “The song speaks to that person that comes in the morning is you and is me as well. Every one of us when we wake up in the morning, we have this person that will look in the mirror and see whether you are tired. You must look at this person and this person will smile back when you smile, and that person will always look at you with that passion because this person loves you unconditionally.”
Another gem in the album is NdicelaUxolo (Please Forgive Me), in explaining the song Madlingozi says: “It is very difficult for most of us to say I’m sorry, I’m sorry for the way I spoke to you, I’m sorry for the way I acted. I’m sorry for saying what I’m saying the way I said it even though it’s the truth but how I said – I’m sorry that hit you that way not I’m sorry for what I said, no.”
Other great songs in the album include Wu He Hem, Unoyongo, Ungumnt’onjani, Ngoma Yam, Nithuleleni, Bomi Bam among others.
Madlingozi released his debut album, Vukani, in 1996. That was followed by Sondelani (1997), Mamelani (1998), Into Yam’ (1999) and Buyisa (2000) – five recordings that still represent one of the most original and resonant creative outpourings by a South African artist at the close of the last century.
A slate of albums followed in the 2000s including Ntumba (2002), The Greatest Hits, Live at the South African State Theatre (2003), Baleka (2004), Ndim Lo (2006), The Coming of Dawn (2007), Ringo Madlingozi Live at the Playhouse (2007), Qhubeka (2008), JayivaSbali (2010), Vulani (2014) and Siyaxentsa (2016). The album is available to all streaming platforms.