Mthunzi and Sfundo Open Up about Brotherhood, Flaws and Love on New Single Amaningi

South African musicians and brothers Mthunzi and Sfundo have joined forces on a deeply emotional new single titled Amaningi, a soul-stirring Afro-soul song that speaks honestly about love, flaws and choosing each other despite imperfections. The collaboration marks a powerful family moment, as the brothers blend soulful isiZulu songwriting with modern African soundscapes to create a song that feels warm, intimate and real.

Amaningi is rooted in the moving refrain, “Vele ngina maphutha amaningi… vele angiwayi phiki, ohhh sthandwa sami,” a confession that acknowledges mistakes while still holding on to love. Instead of presenting a perfect picture of romance, the song leans into vulnerability and truth. It is about loving fully even when things are not easy, and about staying present even when you are aware of your own shortcomings.

Following the release of the single, OK Mzansi Magazine sat down with Mthunzi and Sfundo to talk about the inspiration behind the song, what it meant to collaborate as brothers, and what listeners can expect next from them.

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Interview with Mthunzi and Sfundo

1. This song centres on loving wholeheartedly despite flaws. What inspired the honest and vulnerable message behind this release?

It’s inspired by real life — loving fully, even when it’s messy. The song comes from personal experiences and observing relationships where vulnerability keeps love real.

2. The lyric “Vele ngina maphutha amaningi” is deeply confessional. Why was it important to foreground imperfection rather than idealised love?

Real love isn’t perfect; it’s honest. Saying “Vele ngina maphutha amaningi” shows taking responsibility for flaws and being human.

3. What did collaborating as brothers add emotionally and creatively to this song?

Collaborating as brothers added trust and emotional safety. We could challenge each other creatively and pull real emotion from shared experiences.

4. How did the studio dynamic differ when working together compared to collaborating with other artists?

The studio felt like a safe space. We laughed, argued, and dug into emotion freely. With other artists, that trust often takes longer to build.

5. Sonically, the song blends Afro-soul with contemporary African elements. How did you approach crafting this sound?

Sonically, we blended Afro soul with contemporary African sounds. We focused on warmth, groove, and vulnerability while keeping it modern.

6. What do you hope listeners, especially couples, take away from the song’s message?

I hope listeners hear permission – to be imperfect, honest, and keep choosing each other. For couples, it opens talks about grace and growth. This song is a deeper step in my artistry – more confessional, more exposed. Emotional vulnerability remains central, now with self-reflection.

7. Mthunzi, your music is known for emotional vulnerability. How does this song build on your artistic identity?

For couples, it opens talks about grace and growth. This song is a deeper step in my artistry — more confessional, more exposed. Emotional vulnerability remains central, now with self-reflection.

8. Sfundo, this release places you more firmly in the spotlight. What does this moment represent in your journey as an artist?

For me, this release is a quiet arrival. It marks growth, courage, and trusting my own voice, showing who I truly am, not just what I can do.

9. How has growing up in a musical family shaped your storytelling and approach to music?

Growing up in a musical family made storytelling natural. Music was a language at home, shaping songs that feel soulful, intentional, and real.

10. Following this release, what can fans expect next from each of you — more collaborations or individual projects?

Fans can expect both collaborations and solo projects. Together, we’ll explore love and storytelling; individually, we’ll build personal journeys that reflect our voices.