The singer’s new Virgin Music Group partnership comes with a powerful Gqom collaboration with late rapper Bravo Le Roux.
By Bulelwa Hoala
South African singer and actress Zolani Mahola has signed with Virgin Music Group and is set to release a new Gqom single, “XhosaNostra,” on 4 June 2026.
The track, which features the late Bravo Le Roux in one of his final recordings, marks the beginning of what the label describes as a new global chapter for the artist.
According to a statement from Virgin Music Group, “XhosaNostra” is deeply rooted in Mahola’s Xhosa identity while pushing into new sonic territory. The single also offers the first glimpse into her upcoming album, People Power, a body of work that blends African identity with global sounds.
“This new partnership brings together a visionary artist and a global team ready to support and amplify her next phase. Both Zolani and Virgin Music Group share a clear sense of momentum around what’s to come, with new music set to introduce a bold evolution of her sound and storytelling. Virgin Music Group is thrilled to be working closely with Zolani and her team on what promises to be a standout project,” the label stated.
Mahola is widely known as the former lead singer of the South African Afro-fusion band Freshlyground.
Over the years, she has collaborated with artists including Stevie Wonder, B.B. King, Aretha Franklin, Yo-Yo Ma, Msaki and Yvonne Chaka Chaka. She is perhaps best known globally for collaborating with Colombian superstar Shakira on the hit song “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”.
Her work has since expanded across music, film and theatre, including performances at Carnegie Hall, a Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards award for Best Actress, and a South African Music Awards award for Best Produced Album for her solo release, Thetha Mama.
Mahola is also an ambassador for the Sea Change Project and co-creator of the Tribeca-awarded podcast Back To The Water.
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