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Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]

United Kingdom-based musician Busi Mhlanga has released a new album titled Ubizo Lwami, a personal project reflecting her calling as a creative artiste.

Produced by Trust Samende, DJ Ntu2Kay, and Pastor Sony Ncube, the 12-track album features songs Bhubesi, Nkonkoni, Banu Bakaloyiwa, Mzilikazi, Khuluma, Roma Nna, Isavunguzane, Ingqobe (featuring Obert Dube and Albert Nyathi, and My Circles.
Hailing from Gwelutshena in Nkayi, the musician who blends traditional and gospel music said the album holds a special place in her heart, as it embodies her true essence.

“Ubizo Lwami means my dynamic calling. Music and performing arts are more than just a passion for me — they are my calling. I can’t live without them; I’d go mad. I’m grateful to do what God has called me to do and give Him all the honour,” she said.

Albert Nyathi

She also acknowledged her ancestors, saying their guidance and presence fulfil her and give her purpose.

“It pushes me to reach out to people, to entertain, spread joy, inspire, teach, and advocate through my music. I believe we’re all called for different purposes in life, and mine is through song,” she added.
Mhlanga also shared that the album is deeply connected to her personal and artistic circles.

“I always say, ‘I am because of my circles’. These include my family, the communities I grew up in, the churches I attended, the schools, my friends, my African heritage, and the world at large as I travel. At the centre of it all is God, my biggest circle.”

Her unique musical style is deeply rooted in her upbringing, influenced by her grandfather, who was a traditional healer. She grew up singing with her family during ceremonies and celebrations, where she would imitate the singing and dancing of her elders.

She described how each song carries a spiritual story, citing Isavunguzane as an example.
“That song is about the whirlwind. I had a mysterious and divine encounter with a whirlwind, which inspired the track.”
The musician, a former Black Umfolosi dancer and ex-Albert Nyathi lead vocalist is planning a live album launch in April, which will include a full video recording of the performance.

“I’ll also select a few songs for official music videos. Some exciting collaborations with other artistes are on the way, so people should keep an eye out!”

Busi Mhlanga

She praised the dedication of her production team, particularly Trust Samende.
“We worked tirelessly, with many sleepless nights and busy days. Trust is an incredibly talented, calm, and collected producer who understood the vision from the beginning. Since we live in different parts of the world, I would record song ideas on my phone, send them to him, and he’d create the beats.

“I recorded the vocals in London with Ghanaian producer Kobby from Kingsbeat before sending them back to Trust for final production. We were on the phone every day for four months!”

Other contributions came from Pastor Sony Ncube in Birmingham, where Mhlanga travelled for recording sessions. His wife, Rue, provided backup vocals on four songs.

“DJ Ntu2Kay from Bulawayo also contributed beats to Bhubesi and Igidelamphakathi. I’m grateful for his work,” she said.
A standout collaboration on the album is Ingqobe, featuring legendary poets Albert Nyathi and Obert Dube.

“Albert Nyathi is someone I deeply respect. I was the lead vocalist of Albert Nyathi & Imbongi for five years and learnt so much from him. It was a marvel to work with these poetic gems,” she said.

Mhlanga, the leader of the Shosholoza band, has performed at major festivals such as WOMAD in England and has been featured on BBC shows. She also performed in honour of the late South African leader Nelson Mandela in London at one point. – @mthabisi_mthire