A Digital Reunion Sparks New Music Conversations
Amapiano producer Baby Momo recently reconnected with TheJournalistDJ.com for an Instagram Live catch-up, marking their first conversation since the release of his previous project, Kufezekile II.
The relaxed virtual interview offered fans an intimate look into the producer’s current state of mind, creative journey, and what lies ahead in 2026.
Reflecting on Life After Adversity
The conversation opened on a heartfelt note, with Baby Momo acknowledging the challenges he has faced over the past year, including surviving a serious car accident.
Despite personal obstacles, the producer shared that he is in a positive space both mentally and creatively.
“Life has its own challenges and obstacles… but on the creative side, everything has been going well,” he explained.
This resilience has directly influenced his music, shaping the emotional depth fans have come to expect from his sound.
No Pressure, Just Purposeful Music
With a catalogue that includes fan-favourite tracks like Umnali, Izitha, and Baya Baleka, Baby Momo addressed the pressure that comes with success and chart performance.
Rather than chasing numbers, he emphasized a belief in authenticity:
“I believe in myself that the certain songs I make, people will like them in a different way.”
However, he acknowledged that high-performing records can subtly influence expectations, even if they don’t dictate his creative direction.
Introducing “Lizalise”: A Rebirth of Sound
The biggest reveal from the interview was his upcoming 12-track project titled Lizalise, set for release on 8 May 2026.
The title, which translates to “rebirth” or “newborn,” carries both personal and artistic meaning. It is inspired by his nephew’s name while also symbolizing a new musical chapter.
“It’s a newborn of a new name, of a new project,” he said.
Unlike his previous work, Lizalise represents a sonic evolution, blending his signature soulful elements with more vibrant, “vibe-driven” Amapiano.
A Project for “The Broken and the Dreamers”
Baby Momo describes Lizalise as a deeply intentional body of work aimed at inspiring listeners navigating life’s hardships.
“It’s for the broken… and also for the dreamers,” he shared.
The album carries themes of healing, motivation, and perseverance, drawing directly from his personal experiences. Songs on the project are expected to balance spiritual messaging with uplifting energy, creating a dual emotional and sonic experience.
“Phola Inhliziyo” Sets the Tone
Leading the rollout is the single Phola Inhliziyo, a collaboration with vocalist Smiley Keys and producer Flax.
The track serves as a motivational anthem, encouraging listeners to find peace amid life’s chaos.
“You mustn’t worry about what’s happening… you need to let your heart be at ease,” he explained.
Interestingly, the song’s lyrical direction was organically developed during a studio camp session, highlighting the collaborative nature of the Amapiano scene.
Inside the Amapiano Studio Culture
Baby Momo offered insight into how collaborations often come together within the genre. While some studio sessions are planned, many creative moments happen spontaneously as artists bring along unexpected collaborators.
This fluid approach has allowed him to work with a wide range of talent, and while he kept most Lizalise features under wraps, he confirmed contributions from artists including Kabza De Small and others yet to be announced.
Taking a Stand on AI in Music
Addressing the growing presence of AI-generated music, Baby Momo expressed concern about its potential impact on creativity.
“It demotivates artists to do real work,” he said.
While he acknowledges AI can be useful as a tool, he believes over-reliance on it risks undermining the authenticity and craftsmanship that define Amapiano.
A New Chapter Begins
With Kufezekile I, Kufezekile II, and now Lizalise, Baby Momo continues to build a compelling discography rooted in emotion and evolution.
As he prepares for this next release, the producer remains focused on growth rather than long-term projections.
“I’ll keep on creating music,” he concluded.
As the countdown to May begins, Lizalise is shaping up to be more than just another album—it’s a statement of rebirth from one of Amapiano’s most introspective voices.
