Gqeberha-born singer-songwriter Thandikhaya Magayiyana, famously known as Joliza Bhacasoul, is set to release his highly anticipated album, Ushuni We Bhaca, on October 31, and promises to give his fans something to light up their festive season.
With deep roots in Emawusheni Village, KwaBhaca, in former Transkei, Joliza is not just a musician. He’s a cultural ambassador preserving and modernising isiBhaca heritage.
The 34-year-old artist rose to national prominence with his 2023 EP, Bhacasoul Experience, which earned him Sama nominations for best newcomer and best traditional album. Now, he is ready to take his signature sound to new heights under the Gallo Record Company label.
“My sound is a reflection of who I am — a bridge between where we come from and where we’re going as a people,” Joliza says.
Ushuni We Bhaca combines the ancient Bhaca traditions of ukucwiya (spiritual singing), ukuvalela (humming), and ukusina (spiritual dancing) with contemporary soul and jazz influences, resulting in a unique fusion that honours the past while embracing the present.
The 10-track album features lead singles Tumelo and Makukhanye, and collaborations with nationally celebrated artists from the Eastern Cape, including Nathi Mankayi, Buselaphi, Dumza Maswana, and Tshego AMG. Top session musicians such as Tlale Makhene, Spanish Motsoeneng, Sam Ibeh, Luyanda Madope, and Scott Sivuyile lend their talents to the project.
Joliza’s journey has been anything but ordinary. From experimenting with music in 2005 to independently releasing singles and albums featured on national stations like Radio 2000, Umhlobo Wenene FM, and TruFM, he has consistently pursued his passion.
His performances at major festivals, including the National Arts Festival, Mandela Bay Arts Festival, IsiXhosa Music Festival, Splash Festival, and Ebubeleni Music Festival, have further cemented his place in African music.
“Having transitioned from being a bus driver by day and music producer by night, I reached new heights when I won SABC 1’s Ushuni Womhlaba Season 1 in 2024,” Joliza said. The victory led to his signing with Gallo.
For the Bhaca community, Joliza’s distinctive Bhacasoul sound pays homage to legends like Busi Mhlongo and Ringo Madlingozi.
“It’s important to trust yourself. Know yourself and sacrifice unimportant things,” he said.
Through his music, Joliza hopes to remind his people of their cultural values, identity, and the importance of staying connected to their roots.
With Ushuni We Bhaca, Joliza Bhacasoul is telling the story of a people, their rhythm, and a legacy that refuses to fade.
