Vocalist Spha Mdlalose will be performing songs from her highly acclaimed debut album “Indlel’eyekhaya” at UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on Wednesday 09 April. The Umlazi born and University of Cape Town (UCT) music graduate, who has made Johannesburg her home, will be performing songs from the album with a full band for the very time. “Indlel’eyekhaya” translates to “The way home”.

She is known for her soulful blend of Jazz, Gospel, and Soul. Her initial introduction to jazz happened in high school when a teacher heard her sing at a school talent show and gave her a solo in the jazz band. That is how a love affair with this genre of music began that would soon change the course of her life. After high school, she went on to complete her studies in music, where she obtained Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance at the illustrious South African College of Music (SACM) at UCT, while performing in and around the Mother City gaining a name for herself.

Vocalist Spha Mdlalose. Picture Supplied

Shortly after graduating, Spha moved to Johannesburg to further her music career. In 2019, she released her three time South African Music Awards (SAMA) nominated album, “Indlel’eyekhaya” to much acclaim. The offering perfectly showcases her diverse musical influences and is praised for its emotive depth and authenticity. In a world of singers, she is a “singer’s singer”, effortlessly breathing life into every lyric and able to use her instrument to convey emotion. Her voice is distinct and clear, boasting a mezzo soprano range that is captivating and beautiful. She is simply a singer you have to witness performing live.

“Indlel’eyekhaya” is a soul-stirring fusion of Jazz, Gospel, and Soul, deeply rooted in her South African heritage and eclectic upbringing. Singing primarily in IsiXhosa and her native language of IsiZulu, Spha crafts a deeply personal and emotionally rich journey that transcends language – speaking straight into the heart. It is both a tribute to her influences and a reflection of home, family, and identity – most poignantly expressed in “D 103”, a heartfelt homage to her late grandfather. Supported by an ensemble of top South African musicians, the music moves with an undeniable groove in depth, proving that true artistry knows no borders and that music truly has the power to heal.

“Indlel’eyekhaya” is not just an album – it’s an experience that speaks to the soul. Audiences can expect to be transported, healed and deeply moved by her presentation. She has performed at several festivals and collaborated with a variety of musicians. UKZN Jazz Centre is located at Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2, Howard College Campus. Tickets are R130 for general admission, R95 for pensioners and R65 for students. Doors open at 17h00 and the concert starts at 17h30.