Legendary guitarist and singer-songwriter Vusi Mahlasela has revealed 22 September 2023 as the release date for his first album since 2009, Umoya (Embracing The Human Spirit), issued through Gallo Music.  

Recorded at Flame Studios and helmed by two-time Grammy-nominated producer Joe Arthur, the 10-track album is the ideal companion soundtrack to South Africa’s Heritage Month. Addressing some crucial personal and social issues, the body of work cocoons deeply introspective and spiritual explorations within its rootsy soundbeds. A signature strum-driven iteration of African Jazz and folk music sees Mahlasela in poetic form, with the artist affectionately referred to as ‘The Voice’ acting as a conduit for both the essence of his musical artform and the continent at large. In partnership with the Vusi Mahlasela Music Foundation and Native Intelligence De Coloniality Project Centre, and with collaborators Habib Koite, Steve Dyer and Maduvha who features on the opening track, Mahlasela seeks to utilise this project to dismantle colonial frameworks by promoting indigenous knowledge and fostering dialogue. 
 

 
Image credit: Planetworld Studios and Elro Burger

The multi award-winning artist who has performed with the late Hugh Masekela and Mahotella Queens continues using his socially-inclined music to convey messages both timeless and borderless, crafting balms as much for individual souls as communities. “I know every sickness needs healing,” Mahlasela shares. “Everyone who cries needs comforting. Every troubled soul needs redemption, as captives need freedom. As every answer starts with a question, every problem needs a solution. Justice must be balanced on every scale - moral leadership, integrity, and fairness matter.” The instructive single “Africa The Sun Has Risen” embodies this ethos, imploring the continent’s inhabitants to equally embrace African-ness and Humankind-ness. Between its earthy strums, the empowering song aims to uplift African voices while actively promoting broader social cohesion - as does Umoya‘s closing track “Universal Prayer”.  

In keeping with the album’s theme of bringing people together, Mahlasela will be taking this brand new music that incorporates in Swahili, English, Venda and Pedi to audiences across South Africa. Confirmed live performances will take place at World of Music, Arts & Dance (WOMAD) at the Market Theatre on October 1st, the Vusi Mahlasela Tribute Concert at Moretele Park on October 7th and the Tembisa Jazz Festival on October 28th. 

 
As the release date of Umoya approaches, Vusi Mahlasela’s music promises to speak to generations old and new and instil a sense of pride around their nations, heritage and cumulative talents. “You who are chosen to deliver the healing message through music,” he advises. “Teach an understanding of the power of the soul, that aligns us to destiny and begin to heal collective illnesses and balance the harmony of new beginnings.” 
 

‘Umoya’ Is Available For Pre-Order Now 
 
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