South African DJ and entertainer Thuli Phongolo, popularly known as Thuli P, is gearing up for a major career milestone as she prepares to release her debut EP AVANA on a deeply personal date. The project is set to drop on 23 January 2026, the day after her birthday, making the release an extension of her birthday celebrations.
Thuli has been fully immersed in the rollout of the EP, visiting radio stations and media platforms across the country to promote the project. While she continues to build her name in the DJ space, public opinion remains divided. Many social media users have shared mixed reactions, with some still unconvinced that the former actress is a fully fledged DJ. Despite the scepticism, Thuli remains confident and focused on sharing her music with the world.
During a recent interview on Radio 2000, the former Generations: The Legacy actress spoke openly and proudly about her debut body of work. When asked what she would be doing the day after her birthday, Thuli revealed that she would be celebrating the release of AVANA. In a video shared by The Hype Channel on X, she joked about the practicality of combining her birthday celebration with the EP launch.
“I am excited to be releasing my EP tomorrow, so I will be having the launch as well as my birthday. That saves me money, effort and time,” she said with a laugh. “I am very happy to be celebrating my EP with everyone that I love, the media and my team. So it just makes sense.”
Thuli also reflected on her journey from television to music when asked whether she always knew she had a passion for music. She explained that ambition and curiosity have always been part of her character. “I had an idea, because I was always ambitious and wanted to try different things. I was never closed off. I am glad that I started at a young age because when you’re young, you’re so open to trying new things, and there is so much room for mistakes. But as I grew older, I found my feet as to what really works,” she shared.
Fans have already been given a preview of AVANA through her recent releases. On MOLO, Thuli explores a tender love story about two people meeting with pure intentions and open hearts, while Hayi Suka delivers a message of female empowerment. Speaking on the track, she explained that it celebrates women who create their own paths, embrace independence and confidently own their journeys.
As anticipation builds, AVANA marks a bold new chapter for Thuli P — one defined by growth, self-belief and the courage to redefine herself beyond expectations.
