Metro FM weekend breakfast host Zola Mhlongo has officially stepped into the music spotlight with the release of her debut single, Vuka.
The song, which dropped in mid-January 2026, signals Zola’s intention to be taken seriously as a recording artist, not just a familiar radio voice.
Vuka, meaning “wake up” in isiZulu, is deeply personal and rooted in a period of emotional reflection and inner struggle.
Speaking to Daily Sun, Zola described the track as a reminder she wrote for herself during a time when self-belief felt hard to hold onto.
She explained that the song serves as a wake-up call to rise above doubt, reclaim one’s worth, and keep pushing forward despite life’s challenges.
Blending Afro-soul elements with uplifting, introspective lyrics, Vuka carries a message of resilience and renewal.
Zola revealed that recording the song was an emotional experience, as she poured real-life moments into both the lyrics and her delivery.
She hopes listeners will find the same encouragement in the track that she did while creating it.
Despite her demanding role on one of South Africa’s biggest radio stations, Zola said pursuing music felt like a natural extension of her purpose.
Hosting and singing, she explained, are both ways of connecting with people and spreading positivity.
The decision to release music now came from finally feeling emotionally and creatively ready to share this side of herself.