The acclaimed songwriter and artist joins forces with renowned producer Atmos Blaq for an introspective anthem about discernment, resilience and protecting your purpose.
Johannesburg, 15 July 2026 – More than a standalone release, Phepha Abanye offers listeners the first glimpse into Makhanj’s forthcoming body of work. While the full project is still to be unveiled, the single introduces the themes of introspection, identity and honest storytelling that define the music still to come. It serves as an invitation into Makhanj’s world, giving audiences an early understanding of the emotional depth and artistic direction that underpin her next chapter.
Phepha Abanye is a deeply reflective record that encourages listeners to guard their peace, remain intentional about the people they allow into their lives and stay focused on the purpose that lies ahead. Loosely translated as “Be careful of others,” the song explores the importance of discernment in a world where not every relationship is rooted in genuine support.
Rather than approaching the subject from a place of fear, Phepha Abanye serves as a reminder that personal growth often requires boundaries. While some people enter our lives to uplift and encourage us, others may unknowingly distract us from the paths we are meant to follow. Through heartfelt lyricism and honest storytelling, Makhanj reminds listeners that although we cannot control the actions of others, we can choose how we protect our energy, our homes and our futures.
“Phepha Abanye is just the beginning,” says Makhanj. “This song opens the door to a much bigger story that I’ve been waiting to tell. Every song that follows builds on this journey, and together they create a body of work that reflects where I’ve come from, what I’ve experienced and who I am becoming as an artist.“
One of the song’s most striking lyrical moments centres around the recurring isiXhosa phrase “Ziyarara,” an expression that captures the feeling that circumstances are becoming tense or unpredictable. Throughout the record, the phrase reinforces the urgency of remaining spiritually grounded and emotionally aware, reminding listeners that while life may become uncertain, inner peace remains a choice.
Musically, Phepha Abanye sees Makhanj collaborate with acclaimed South African producer Atmos Blaq, whose innovative work within Afro House, Afro Tech and the emerging 3-Step movement has earned him recognition both locally and internationally. Known for his emotionally rich productions and distinctive sonic landscapes, Atmos Blaq provides the perfect backdrop for a song that balances vulnerability with strength.
As the first offering from her highly anticipated debut project, the single establishes the tone for what audiences can expect in the weeks ahead. Rather than revealing everything at once, Makhanj intentionally introduces listeners to her story one chapter at a time, allowing each release to uncover another layer of her artistry before the complete body of work is shared with the world.
Accompanying the single is an official music video released simultaneously, extending the song’s message through striking visuals that complement its themes of self-awareness, resilience and personal reflection. Together, the song and its visuals invite audiences to experience Phepha Abanye not simply as a piece of music, but as a reminder to remain intentional about the people, spaces and energy they allow into their lives.
With Phepha Abanye, Makhanj continues to establish herself as an artist whose music is rooted in honest storytelling and meaningful conversations.
Phepha Abanye is now available on all major digital streaming platforms
https://music.empi.re/phephaabanye with the official music video available on YouTube.