Zolani Mahola introduces The Feminine Force band

cSouth African musical icon Zolani Mahola, globally celebrated for her unforgettable years fronting the multi-platinum-selling band Freshlyground, is continuing her powerful artistic evolution with the release of her warm, groovy new single, A Good Time.

Also see: Zolani Mahola celebrates a new chapter with her latest single, ‘A Good Time’

Moving far beyond the afro-fusion and pop-rock sounds that first made her a household name, Mahola is embracing a vibrant, independent second act centred on personal growth, emotional freedom, and creative reinvention ahead of her full-length album People Power.

From Freshlyground to creative freedom

For nearly two decades, Mahola anchored Freshlyground as its charismatic lead singer, helping shape the soundscape of modern South African music with massive global hits like Doup and collaborating with Shakira on the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem Waka Waka.

Following the band’s final performance in late 2019, she stepped boldly into her solo career, initially performing as The One Who Sings before fully reclaiming her name and artistic autonomy.

Also see: Zolani Mahola reveals exciting plans for her upcoming biopic

This transition has allowed Mahola to experiment across genres, blending Afro-pop, African soul, and acoustic storytelling without being boxed into a singular historical template.

Reflecting on this empowering new phase, Mahola says she now has the freedom to paint with every colour available. Her latest musical chapter celebrates the deep personal work following life’s major transitions, resulting in a sound that approaches new beginnings with confidence and joy.

Introducing The Feminine Force: A collective of powerhouses

Bringing this fresh sonic chapter to life is The Feminine Force, an ever-growing collective of phenomenal women who make up her dynamic all-female backing band.

Mahola recently pulled back the curtain to introduce the powerhouse musicians driving her live performances and studio sound:

• The Bassline Baddie: Austen (@austebza) holding down the bass with effortless pocket and groove.
• The Rhythm Rebel: Sky (@sky_dladla) commanding the percussion with electrifying energy.
• Fingers of Magic: Nobuhle Ashanti (@nobuhle_ashanti) weaving intricate melodies and textures on keys.
• The Beat Commander: Carla Drums (@carladrums) driving the rhythm with precision on drums.
• The Good Time Conductor: Zolani Mahola herself, leading the charge on vocals and vision.

Describing the collective, Mahola notes that the band represents “five women, a whole lot of musical magic, and one mission: to make sure you have A GOOD TIME!”

More than just a backing ensemble, The Feminine Force is designed as a living, expanding network of incredible female artists where once you are part of the Force, you are always part of the Force.

Inside the sound and energy of A Good Time

At its core, A Good Time serves as a joyful manifesto for healing, community, and uninhibited celebration. Driven by the rich chemistry of The Feminine Force, the track effortlessly fuses organic instrumentation with infectious rhythms, blending driving percussion, warm keyboard harmonies, and a pulsing bassline that invites listeners straight to the dancefloor.

Rather than leaning into heavy introspection, the single captures an artist revelling in the sheer euphoria of connection and shared energy.

It serves as a vibrant taste of what fans can expect from the upcoming People Power album, a masterclass in modern South African soul that honours collective female talent while delivering an undeniable, feel-good anthem for the season.

Featured image: Instagram/@zolanimahola

Also see: Zolani Mahola set to shine at Johannesburg’s Scatterlings Music Festival

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