DJ Zan-D Praises iFani’s Lyricism On Forthcoming Mixtape ‘Umsebenzi Wam’

DJ Zan-D Praises iFani’s Lyricism On Forthcoming Mixtape ‘Umsebenzi Wam.’ iFani appears ready to make a powerful return to the spotlight, with respected DJ and media personality Zan-D describing the artist’s upcoming mixtape Umsebenzi Wam as a reminder of the lyrical excellence that first made him one of the country’s most respected hip-hop voices.

Having received an exclusive preview of the eight-track project, Zan-D shared an enthusiastic review, revealing that iFani has been hard at work crafting a body of music that balances modern production with the authenticity fans have long associated with his name.

“The brother has been cooking,” Zan-D said, applauding the mixtape’s production quality and carefully selected beats, which combine contemporary sounds with infectious energy.

While the instrumentals impressed him, Zan-D believes the project’s greatest strength is iFani’s songwriting.

“The real highlight for me is the pen,” he said. “iFani sounds focused, hungry and comfortable in his own lane again. No chasing trends, just Xhosa bars, storytelling and grown man raps.”

Scheduled for release on 31 July 2026, Umsebenzi Wam is said to be one of iFani‘s most personal projects to date. Through heartfelt storytelling, the rapper reflects on his experiences and journey, delivering honest, introspective verses that are likely to resonate with longtime supporters who have missed his signature style.

Rather than relying on nostalgia, the mixtape signals an artist embracing his identity. At a time when many musicians are adapting their sound to fit viral trends, iFani appears committed to staying true to himself by combining sharp lyricism, cultural pride, and storytelling in both isiXhosa and English.

Zan-D also revealed that Umsebenzi Wam is only the beginning of what fans can expect from the rapper this year. He confirmed that iFani’s forthcoming album, The 3rd Quadrant, is expected to arrive in September, suggesting the mixtape serves as an introduction to a much bigger chapter in the artist’s career.

Summing up his reaction in simple terms, Zan-D declared, “iFANi is BACK!”

With the release of Umsebenzi Wam now just days away, anticipation continues to build among South African hip-hop fans eager to hear iFani’s next chapter. If Zan-D’s early impressions are anything to go by, listeners can expect a project rooted in authenticity, lyrical precision and the storytelling that helped establish iFani as one of the country’s standout rap talents.