Diana Kinyanjui 
Sultry cocktails flowing and hors d’oeuvres at the click of a finger. Azur on Monarch in Sandton was a buzz as DJ Sobzeen launched his album iThemba Lam in a warm and cosy gathering.
Hosted by Yano Lyrics presenter Mars, the evening was attended by guests, including renowned singer Vusi Nova, Amapiano culture curator Thulani Way, Big Brother star Lerato Modise, Radio host Kamo Moth, and popular pastor Prophet Mboro, who defied all odds about how pastors are meant to do as he entered the launch escorted by five bodyguards.
After sharing his musical journey up until the release of iThemba Lam, Sobzeen spoke on the hardships of the music industry while celebrating his wins, success, and creativity.
“I have made many hits that I have not been credited for. But now it is time to show my skill. This project is spiritual and wholesome. I describe it as Gospel-Piano, for the mature ear but also the young person, “ Sobzeen told the guests.
Once a supposed ghostwriter to many hits, DJ, and producer, Sobzeen – real name Zakhele Mbuyisa has now found his voice and is cementing his place in show business. Restlessly producing and doing all the genius work as behind the scenes, for years, he now steps into the limelight to demonstrate his true musical prowess in his 11-track album, iThemba Lam, set to be released on Friday, 8 August 2025.
His new sound is a medley of gospel music and Amapiano, which he dubs “Hope Amapiano.” iThemba Lam is an ode to perseverance in the face of challenges.
“It is a mix of warm melodies, portraying messages of strength and resilience. It is about me reinforcing the idea that even in hard times, faith can serve as an anchor,” Sobzeen says.
Nothing he does, is by chance and is all intentional, like the artwork album iThema Lam which is a striking and bold statement symbolising faith, freedom, and broken chains.
Sobzeen steps into the light with a defiant debut, released through new record label Solid Sound. The project features Pale Moloi, Russell Zuma, Youme, Stu, Deep London, Zee_nhle, Casey Ntuli, Dr Thulz, Mr Maker, DJ Stokie, Mashudu, BusiGold, Nele SA, Msongi, Happy Jazzman, Gontse Levati.
“This chain represents every contract that restricted me and each credit I was denied. The cross symbolizes the hope that sustained me throughout my journey,” Sobzeen notes.
CREATIVE RATIONALE
The Artwork Speaks: Chains, Crosses, and Resilience
Black Background: Represents isolation and the unseen influence behind significant musical successes.
Chain and Cross: Illustrate the dual experience of industry constraints and unwavering hope.
Puff Hoodie: Combines contemporary street-wear with a sense of sanctity, representing Sobzeen’s steadfast identity.
QUESTION AND ANSWER
Why the title iThemba Lam?
iThemba Lam is my first chance to claim my narrative and tell my own story. The visual symbolism in the artwork is deliberate; the chain and cross mirror South Africa’s struggles in the music industry.
Describe the sound of this project.
Amapiano-Soul meets gospel’s grace, laced with lyrics that expose the industry’s underbelly. It might seem controversial to many, but it’s me documenting the challenges of being an entertainer. It’s spiritual, slightly religious, but moving.
What are the themes you explore in the music?
Exploitation, faith, and the fight to own one’s legacy. I get candid about how ‘Selimathunzi’ went 2x Platinum, but I never saw a cent. Why God and music are my only contacts now.
What are some of the lessons you have learned that make you a better producer?
I have learned to prioritize my own needs. I have worked with people who exploited my creativity without credit. I built DJ Stokie’s empire, yet I walked away with no royalties and no fame. Nothing to show for it. The lesson there was to always put myself first.
TRACKLIST
1. Izono – Sobzeen x Pale Moloi ft Msongi
2. Somandla – Sobzeen x Msongi ft Nele SA
3. Sthandwa Sami – Sobzeen x Mashudu x Happy Jazzman ft Gontse Levati
4. iThemba Lami – Sobzeen x BusiGold x Stu ft Dr Thulz
5. Amalobolo – Sobzeen x Ssips ft Zee_nhle
6. Sponono – Sobzeen x Russell Zuma
7. Ngizizwe Kanje – Sobzeen x Zee_nhle ft Nele SA
8. Mang’Dakiwe – Sobzeen x DJ Stokie ft Mr Maker
9. Ngeke Bak’thande Bonke – Sobzeen x Youme
10. Imana – Sobzeen x Deep London ft Casey Ntuli & Pale Moloi
11. UThando Luyadura – Sobzeen x Pale Moloi
Social Media:
@Sobzeen
#IthembaLami
SALM TEAM 
