Award-winning stars Naledi Aphiwe and Mawelele have once again joined forces, continuing their musical love story with a brand-new release titled Come Duze.
The new single is the latest chapter in what fans have come to know as their modern-day “Romeo and Juliet” music series, a storyline that began with their emotive hit “Buya Ekhaya”.
According to the duo, the song symbolises the long, complicated process of finding your way back to each other.
“Come Duze” is the happy-ending moment to a complicated fairytale between myself and Mawelele. Unlike our first two collaborations, which were the beginning of our love story, this one represents growth and resolution,” Naledi explains.
Musically, they explain that the track blends Afropop and R&B influences, creating a sound that reflects both artists’ distinct styles.
“It’s a groovy type of Afropop. Mawelele is more into chilled R&B vibes, while I’m more into high-key, sing-along-type vocals. That contrast is what makes the combination perfect in music.”
Their creative chemistry, she says, has always felt natural.
“Our musical conversations are organic. We always meet each other halfway, emotionally, creatively, and with honesty,” she shares.
“We’ve done four amazing songs together. We actually wanted to make an entire album, but timing didn’t align last year for us to release it.”
Beyond the music, Naledi believes their partnership has resonated with fans because of their shared journey and growth.
“I love making music with Mawelele. We’re both young and passionate about Afropop and R&B, and our breakthroughs happened around the same time. A collaboration between us always made sense — and the fans love both of us,” she says.
While Come Duze feels like a natural continuation of their story, Naledi confirms it will be their final collaboration for now.
“For now, yes, this is the last collaboration. We felt we still owed our supporters a happy ending.
It’s time for us to focus on our individual projects. We’ve given people beautiful moments to hold on to. Our collaboration boosted our careers; we won awards, broke records, and reached unbelievable milestones together.”
As her career continues to grow, Naledi says she is becoming more intentional about both her art and her personal life.
“I’ve learnt the importance of keeping parts of my life private. People know my backstory and are inspired by my journey, but lately I’m learning what to share and what to protect,” she says.
Looking ahead to 2026, the rising star has clear goals in mind.
“I want to prove myself with a full body of work and gain more international recognition,” the music star says.
“I want my music to reach other shores, more international collaborations, awards, and bookings.”
When asked about dream collaborations, her list is both ambitious and diverse.
“I’d love to work with Ayra Starr, Afrotraction, Summer Walker, Kabza De Small, and my sister Nontokozo Mkhize,” she shares.
Saturday Star