10 Things You Should Know About Big Zulu’s New Album, Icala LeMpumelelo
Multi-award-winning artist Big Zulu has returned with his highly anticipated fifth studio album, Icala LeMpumelelo—a genre-bending, culture-rich collection that reaffirms his position as one of South Africa’s most versatile musical forces. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Ushun Wenkabi, here are 10 things you need to know about this bold and beautiful project:
1. It’s a Masterclass in Musical Duality
Big Zulu flexes his musical ambidexterity, moving seamlessly between heartfelt melodies and raw, introspective bars. From soul-baring love songs to sharp social commentary, he effortlessly blends Afro-soul and hip-hop, often within a single track.
2. The Title Track Sets the Tone
The album opens with the title track “Icala LeMpumelelo”, a deeply personal reflection on the emotional costs of success. Zulu uses melodic singing to capture vulnerability and raps to tell his rags-to-riches story—an authentic opener that sets the emotional tone for the project.
3. A Stellar Cast of Collaborators
The 12-track album features a diverse lineup of collaborators, including eMtee, Sjava, Aymos, Nkosazana Daughter, Shwi Mntombazane, Toss, Sir Trill, Ma7, Zakwe, and rising talents like Zee Nxumalo and Zeh Mcgeba—each bringing a unique texture to Big Zulu’s vision.
4. It’s Not Just Hip-Hop
This isn’t your typical rap album. Icala LeMpumelelo fuses Afropop, amapiano, maskandi, and Afro-soul, all anchored by Zulu’s lyrical storytelling and booming voice. It’s genre-fluid in the best possible way.
5. The Album Showcases Big Zulu’s Growth
From street cyphers to stadium stages, this album reflects Zulu’s evolution as both an artist and mogul. He’s grown more introspective, more experimental, and more open about his cultural roots and musical passions.
6. “Abazazi Bafunani” is Already a Smash
The eMtee-assisted track “Abazazi Bafunani” is an early fan favourite and a certified anthem, thanks to its bold critique of rap culture and its infectious beat. It was the highlight of his intimate live session in Johannesburg.
7. The Love Songs Are Honest & Vulnerable
Tracks like “Mthulise”, “Mina Ngedwa”, and “Mbali Yam” showcase a softer side of Big Zulu—balancing tenderness with raw authenticity. These songs speak to love, longing, and emotional complexity, all delivered with signature depth.
8. “Interlude” Is a Cypher Moment
On “Interlude”, Sjava, Ma7, and Big Zulu deliver back-to-back lyrical fire over a boom-bap beat—proof that Zulu hasn’t forgotten his underground rap roots even as he experiments with broader sounds.
9. Two Cities, Two Epic Launches
The album was launched in true Inkabi style, with explosive events in Durban and Johannesburg. Durban’s Playhouse show brought the house down, while Joburg’s listening session at Spitz offered a more intimate celebration of Zulu’s artistry.
10. It’s a Cultural Statement
Beyond the beats and features, Icala LeMpumelelo is a celebration of Zulu identity, Black excellence, and South African musical legacy. It’s Big Zulu’s love letter to the culture, the people, and the music that made him.
Stream Icala LeMpumelelo now on all major platforms and experience the power, vulnerability, and vision of Big Zulu like never before.
