Renowned producers Yumbs and Zwayetoven have teamed up to release Soul Buddies, a joint album. Featuring 21 expertly crafted tracks, the album brings together some of South Africa’s most celebrated talents, including Shekhinah, Nasty C, DBN Gogo, Mawhoo, Mthunzi, Ami Faku, and more.
A standout moment from Soul Buddies is With You, a trailblazing collaboration between rapper Nasty C and R&B star Shekhinah, marking their debut in the Amapiano genre.
The track was previewed during an exclusive album listening session last November, where it received a standing ovation. The duo’s transition into Amapiano has sparked excitement among fans, with many praising their ability to blend their signature styles with the genre’s smooth and soulful beats.
The album showcases Yumbs and Zwayetoven’s artistry and pays homage to their shared roots at the National School of the Arts. Its title, Soul Buddies, is a nod to the iconic TV show Soul Buddyz, reflecting the duo’s passion for soul-infused music and their nostalgic connection.
Another standout track, Maqondisa, features the legendary DBN Gogo alongside Scotts Maphuma and Uncool MC. With its infectious energy and innovative sound, the song is already being hailed as a summer anthem, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge production.
Yumbs, a multi-platinum producer, has a proven track record with hits like Dali Wam by Pabi Cooper and Sondela by Venom x Shishiliza. His work has even garnered international acclaim with Amapiano remixes for Ciara and Chris Brown. Zwayetoven, a rising star in the genre, continues to impress with collaborations alongside Kelvin Momo, Focalistic, and DBN Gogo.
With Soul Buddies, the duo has created a polished and soulful body of work that celebrates South Africa’s rich music culture while propelling the Amapiano genre forward. Whether it’s Nasty C and Shekhinah’s bold venture into new territory or the high-energy collaborations with genre heavyweights, Soul Buddies promises to be the soundtrack of the season.
