Image: Gallo Images / Oupa Bopape
After more than a decade away from releasing music, South African kwaito star Kabelo Mabalane has announced that he is making a long-awaited return to the industry.
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The former TKZee member shared the exciting news with fans on social media, revealing that he will release new music after an 11-year hiatus. The announcement has been met with excitement from supporters who have eagerly awaited his return.
‘The time is right’
In a heartfelt post, Kabelo reflected on his decision to step away from music and explained why now feels like the perfect time to return.
While the musician has remained active as a motivational speaker, author, pastor, and fitness enthusiast over the years, he admitted that his passion for creating music has never disappeared.
Although he has yet to reveal the title or release date of his upcoming project, Kabelo hinted that fans can expect fresh music in the near future.
“11 years later… and it finally feels like the right time. I’m back with new music, a new perspective, and the same passion that started it all. Thank you to everyone who kept asking, waited and believed. Soon you’ll be able to press play,” he penned.
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A career that shaped South African music
Kabelo first rose to fame in the late 1990s as one-third of the award-winning kwaito group TKZee, alongside Zwai Bala and the late Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala.
The group became one of South Africa’s most influential music acts, producing timeless hits including Shibobo, Phalafala and Dlala Mapantsula. Their music helped define the kwaito era and earned them widespread acclaim across the continent.
Kabelo also enjoyed a successful solo career with albums such as Bouga Luv, cementing his place as one of South Africa’s most celebrated performers.
Fans welcome the return of Kabelo Mabalane
Following the announcement, social media was flooded with messages from fans expressing their excitement over the comeback.
Many described his return as “long overdue,” while others said they were eager to hear how his sound has evolved after more than a decade away from recording.
With anticipation already building, Kabelo’s return marks one of the most highly anticipated music comebacks of the year, as fans wait to hear what the kwaito icon has been working on after 11 years away from the studio.
Actress Katlego Danke said: “Cannot wait!”
Media personality Wanda Baloyi said: “The king’s back.”
While another user said: “Are you going to feature Zoe? Oh, please do.”
Also see: ‘Back in the Kitchen,’- Kabelo Mabalane makes a musical comeback
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