Internationally celebrated actress, entrepreneur, DJ and cultural trailblazer Pearl Thusi has officially entered a new artistic era with the release of her debut single “Sodwa”, featuring Maskandi legend Ihashi Elimhlophe and production contributions from DJ Melzi. The track marks a defining moment in Thusi’s ever-evolving career, offering a deeply personal and culturally grounded musical statement.
Stream “Sodwa” here: https://orcd.co/sodwa
A Fusion of Traditions and Modernity
“Sodwa” is a genre-defying blend of Afro-house, Amapiano, Maskandi, and deep tribal sonics, capturing the vibrant hybridity of South Africa’s contemporary music landscape. The track intentionally bridges past and present, weaving ancestral textures with modern rhythms to honour both heritage and innovation.
By collaborating with Ihashi Elimhlophe, one of the most respected figures in Maskandi, Thusi positions traditional Zulu music at the centre of a fresh, global-facing sound. Their partnership becomes a cultural handshake between generations, celebrating the endurance and adaptability of African musical traditions.
A Personal Tribute to Family and Legacy
At its core, “Sodwa” is a love letter. The song was inspired by the passing of Thusi’s father in 2020 and fulfils a lifelong desire to pay homage to his musical influence. The single’s evocative cover art—featuring a vintage photograph of her parents—reflects the intergenerational values and memories embedded in the music.
“Sodwa is dedicated to all forms of love—romantic, familial, platonic—and their rightful place in our collective celebration,” Thusi shares. “This song has waited three years to be born. It represents my commitment to honouring the sounds that connect me to my culture, my heritage, and my identity as a Zulu woman.”
A Dream Collaboration Anchored in Cultural Respect
Thusi personally sought out Ihashi Elimhlophe for the track, presenting him with multiple song drafts before ultimately securing his participation. His inclusion adds credibility, cultural texture and a deeper spiritual resonance to the project.
Her move into music is not a sudden detour but a continuation of a creative journey defined by reinvention. From “Queen Sono”, “Quantico”, and “The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” to business ventures like Black Pearl Hair and Black Rose Gin, Thusi has consistently expanded her artistic universe.
From DJ Booth to Studio – A Natural Evolution
With over 125 local and international DJ performances—including sets at Spotify Cannes and the NBA Africa Finals in Kigali—Thusi has cultivated a deep understanding of audience, rhythm and energy. This foundation, she says, made the move into music production an intuitive next step.
Even so, Thusi describes the process as emotionally exposing: “This is the most vulnerable I’ve ever been in any situation.” Her openness aligns with a growing wave of African women in the creative industries embracing authenticity and emotional honesty.
Crafting the Sound of “Sodwa”
The production process was highly collaborative, involving numerous iterations before reaching its final form. Thusi highlights the bass elements—her “favourite sound”—alongside DJ Melzi’s delicate keyboard layers and carefully chosen drum patterns, all of which shape a textured, spiritual soundscape.
“What matters most is feeling the essence of my culture and heritage in the music,” she says. “All the sounds must encompass my musical love languages. This track is a genuine expression of who I am and where I come from.”
A Release That Mirrors Africa’s Global Rise
“Sodwa” arrives during a pivotal moment for African music. Genres are blending, audiences are expanding, and traditional styles like Maskandi are being reimagined with contemporary flair. Thusi’s decision to centre a historically marginalized genre reflects artistic bravery and a deep cultural responsibility.
Her ability to move seamlessly across film, business, DJing and now original music underscores the increasing viability of multi-dimensional creative careers.
