Sandton’s Azur on Monarch set the stage for a night of elegance and music history as DJ Sobzeen unveiled his highly anticipated debut album, iThemba Lam. With sultry cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a warm, intimate atmosphere, the event drew an eclectic mix of celebrities, industry figures, and supporters.
Hosted by Yano Lyrics presenter Mars, notable attendees included Vusi Nova, Amapiano culture curator Thulani Way, Big Brother star Lerato Modise, radio host Kamo Moth, and the always-charismatic Prophet Mboro, who arrived with a formidable entourage of five bodyguards.
Sobzeen, born Zakhele Mbuyisa, is no stranger to the Amapiano landscape. Known for crafting and co-producing some of the genre’s biggest hits such as Mastokose, Selimathunzi, Kunzima, Mali, and Sandrasami, he has spent years working behind the scenes, often without credit or recognition. Now, with iThemba Lam, he steps into the spotlight with a project he describes as “Gospel-Piano” or “Hope Amapiano” — a fusion of emotive gospel elements and Amapiano’s infectious rhythms.
The album title, meaning “My Hope,” reflects Sobzeen’s philosophy on following one’s passion without a fallback plan.
“If you have a plan B, it means you doubt your first choice,” Sobzeen told guests. “This album is spiritual and wholesome… it’s for the mature ear but also the young person.”
iThemba Lam tackles themes of resilience, self-worth, and reclaiming one’s narrative in an often-exploitative music industry. Sobzeen shared personal reflections on contributing to platinum-selling records without compensation, noting that the “chain” in his symbolism represents restrictive contracts, while the “cross” signifies the hope that kept him going.
The 11-track project features collaborations with 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, and Gontse Levati. Each track weaves Sobzeen’s melodic progressions with the danceable pulse of Amapiano.
With iThemba Lam, Sobzeen hopes to take his sound beyond South Africa’s borders, securing international performance opportunities while inspiring local artists to own their craft. His closing words to the crowd summed up the night’s spirit:
“Continue supporting the change. This is our sound, our roots — and we must be proud of it.”
Make sure to stream the album “iThemba Lam” HERE.
