Nomzamo Dlamini, better known by her stage name Zamo, is set to make waves in 2026 with her soulful new single “Buhle Bendvodza,” releasing on February 20 ahead of her eagerly awaited album Ihlumile, slated for March 6.
The Afro Pop/Soul powerhouse Zamo continues to celebrate love, heritage, and artistic growth with “Buhle Bendvodza” (“A man’s strength”), a soulful blend of heartfelt storytelling, captivating vocals, and rich African musical elements that solidifies her as one of the genre’s most compelling voices.
Speaking with The Star, Zamo explained that while much of her earlier songwriting drew from the experiences of others, her new single is deeply personal.
“For many years I have written from the experiences of others, from conversations with others, but this time I must say it really hits home for me because I am living in my answered prayer era. Recently getting married and meeting intentional people are very rare these days, and yet I did. So, this is a praise song to all the intentional men out there who go all out for their women in ways even words cannot explain.”
Serving as the gateway into Ihlumile, the single introduces listeners to an 8-track body of work reflecting growth, resilience, and personal evolution. The album title, meaning “It has blossomed”, mirrors her artistic maturity, offering an intimate journey through love, self-discovery, strength, and cultural pride.
Reflecting on her childhood, the artist said her musical roots run deep. On weekends, her home resonated with the sounds of Shongwe and Khuphuka and Ncandweni Christ Ambassadors, while afternoons were alive with Oliver Mtukutsi and Soul Brothers. After school, she gravitated toward the music of Brandy, Simphiwe Dana, and Destiny’s Child. By the age of 14, she was already writing her own songs, and a year later, she released her first demo.
“When I listen to my music now, I do pick up so many elements of my musically colourful childhood,” she said.
Cultural heritage also informs her artistry. Zamo draws inspiration from Eswatini’s cultural events, such as Umhlanga and Incwala, with traditional melodies subtly woven into her music.
She acknowledged that her career has not been without hurdles, admitting that relying on others to handle the business side while she focused on singing led to setbacks.
“I faced setbacks relying on others to do certain things for me just because you want to ‘sing’ when in fact the business part of music is just as crucial for you to be knowledgeable about. How I overcame it, I took a few steps back and started from scratch,” she added.
Zamo cites Miriam Makeba as a key influence, admiring her bold voice and fearless exploration of genres and languages. Ihlumile reflects Zamo’s journey across church music, house, Afro Pop, and gospel, culminating in her comfort zone within Afro Pop/Soul.
“My previous album, Inhlanyelo (The Seed), laid the foundation. Now that seed has blossomed,” she says.
She revealed that the creation of “Buhle Bendvodza” tested her team, with two competing versions keeping them up at night.
“Choosing the final cut was a tug-of-war, but collaboration ensures the music truly resonates,” she explains.
Zamo’s music aims to inspire emotionally, culturally, and socially. Tracks like Lendlela bring hope, Buyelekhaya encourages reconnecting with roots, and Buhle Bendvodza celebrates intentional love.
Among her proudest moments, she cites performing at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s inauguration, a milestone validating her journey from home to South Africa.
Looking ahead, Zamo plans to expand her reach, grace more stages, and explore acting opportunities. Her message through Ihlumile is clear:
“They may bury you not knowing you are a seed, and your tears water you, now go blossom.”
With “Buhle Bendvodza”, Zamo signals that 2026 will be a defining year in Afro Pop/Soul.
The Star