Maqhinga Hadebe Unveils Captivating New Single, “Sthandwa Sami,” Featuring Karin Kedem

Renowned South African Maskandi artist Maqhinga Hadebe has once again showcased his exceptional musical talent with the release of his latest single, Sthandwa Sami. This heartfelt and deeply evocative track features German cultural enthusiast and media professional Karin Kedem, blending the rich sounds of traditional Maskandi with elements of Afro-soul. Sung in a unique fusion of isiZulu, English, and German, the song stands as a beautiful testament to cross-cultural collaboration in music.

Maqhinga Hadebe, a highly respected figure in South African traditional music, hails from Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal. Since rising to prominence in the mid-90s, he has remained at the forefront of the Maskandi genre, earning numerous accolades and industry recognition. His music, deeply rooted in Zulu heritage, has resonated with audiences both locally and internationally. In 2010, he joined forces with fellow musician Qadasi (David Jenkins), and together, the duo has spent over a decade captivating listeners across the globe. Their distinctive blend of Zulu traditional sounds and Western folk influences has taken them to stages in the UK, Europe, and Asia, solidifying their reputation as global ambassadors of South African folk music.

Sthandwa Sami delves into themes of love, emotional resilience, and the delicate nature of human relationships. With its poignant lyrics, the song urges listeners to approach conflicts with patience and understanding, emphasizing the dangers of uncontrolled emotions. Beyond being a love song, Sthandwa Sami also carries a deeper social message, shedding light on the ongoing issue of gender-based violence. Through its stirring melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, the track calls for awareness, self-restraint, and a culture of respect in relationships.

For this remarkable collaboration, Maqhinga partnered with Karin Kedem, a passionate supporter of South African music and culture. Karin, a freelancer in the German television industry and an educator, has been actively involved in community engagement and cultural exchange initiatives. Over the years, she has developed a strong affinity for South African music, forming close ties with many musicians from the region. Known affectionately as “Khalina” by her Zulu friends and supporters, she has played a key role in several cross-cultural musical projects. Her commitment to bridging cultural divides through music was further demonstrated when she hosted Qadasi & Maqhinga for a concert in Germany, strengthening their artistic and personal connections.

The creative synergy between Maqhinga and Karin was born from their shared appreciation for storytelling through music. Having first met when Maqhinga was touring Germany with Qadasi, their artistic connection grew over time, eventually leading to this meaningful collaboration. With Karin’s multilingual contribution and Maqhinga’s signature Maskandi sound, Sthandwa Sami becomes more than just a song—it’s an experience that transcends borders, uniting different cultures through melody and emotion.

With the release of Sthandwa Sami, Maqhinga Hadebe continues to reinforce his legacy as one of the most influential voices in Maskandi music. By intertwining traditional South African rhythms with international influences, he not only honors his Zulu roots but also creates music that speaks to a global audience. This latest offering is a masterful blend of soul-stirring vocals, intricate instrumentation, and powerful storytelling, destined to leave a lasting impression on listeners across the world.