Zandie Khumalo Set to Unleash Genre-Defying EP Ebantwini This Friday

Award-winning, double platinum-selling artist Zandie Khumalo is gearing up to release her much-anticipated EP, Ebantwini, this Friday, November 14th.

The six-track project marks a defining moment in Zandie’s career — not only does it highlight her exceptional vocal range, but it also showcases her evolution as a producer, with Zandie co-producing the EP herself.

Ebantwini serves as a bold statement of artistic freedom, defying genre boundaries while weaving together Afro-Soul, Gospel, and vibrant dance rhythms. The result is a sound that is uniquely Zandie — fresh, emotional, and boundless.

“I’m an artist — you can’t box me into one genre. I create based on how I feel in the moment,” says Zandie, expressing her excitement about the project.

Addressing her recent absence from the music scene, Zandie explains that the break was intentional and necessary for her creative process.

“My fans understand me. My music is timeless, so I don’t feel pressured to release songs back-to-back. I believe in creating work that lasts,” she says.

She adds with conviction:

“I’m a musician first. If you’re not hearing from me musically, then you won’t hear from me at all. I’m not chasing red carpets or social media trends — my focus is and always will be the music.”

Ebantwini marks an exciting new chapter in Zandie Khumalo’s illustrious career — a project that reflects authenticity, versatility, and fearless creativity. Fans can look forward to an emotionally rich and sonically diverse journey when the EP drops on all major streaming platforms this Friday, November 14th.

What was the inspiration behind the EP, Ebantwini?

It’s inspired by life and the journey that I have traveled as a human being and as an artist; the love I have experienced and the hardships of life that’s why there’s songs like Emhlabeni.

Which song in the EP really speaks to you and is personal, and why?

Emhlabeni is the one song that truly speaks about God’s grace – what I have been through with my family. It is really a personal song, and the lyrics will tell you. Then there’s Hlakanipha, which is my rendition of the Hymn Wenhliziyo, but I gave it my identity and my heart out.

When was the last time you released a full body of work, and why did out feel this was the right time?

The last time I released a body of work was 2021, and the time can never be always right, it’s a matter of me being ready.

Who co-produced the album with you?

My husband, Mhlo Gumede, his understanding of music is immaculate and understanding of what the market wants and where it is right now is essential,he is actually the one who produced my first ever song, Themba.

Is this the first time you are chipping in as a producer, and how was the experience?

Not really, but formally yes, the experience was amazing because I took my time, I didn’t just jump into producing, I had to be ready first. I have been teaching music ear a lot these past years and I believe it’s the right time.

What was your style of music when you started, and how would you describe your style now?

I never really had a style,maybe influences here and there, but I’m a diverse and versatile creative.

People still sometimes compare you to your sister. Do you see it as a compliment or an insult?

Definitely a compliment, she is one of the most talented and hard-working people I know, and it helps that when I  got into the industry yena, she was already in.