‘Breathe is a personal journey of healing and reflection,’ says Zethe on her debut album

JOHANNESBURG –  She would spend Saturdays in front of the mirror, broom in hand singing her heart out.

Other times her mother would have her performing at weddings and graduation parties.

And now Afro-jazz artist  Zethembiso Zimela known professionally as Zethe is launching her debut album  Breathe at Mamakashaka & Friends on March 7.

"Breathe is more than just an album; it is a personal journey of healing and reflection. The music is composed to serve as a form of medicine, "Ikhambi", which provides solutions to the myriad of issues we face in our daily lives—breathing amidst the chaos, reclaiming our humanity, summoning courage, nurturing hope, and finding solace in love and prayer.

"Ultimately, the music in this album carries therapeutic musical strategies on mental health, serving as both a mirror and a remedy for the soul” said Zethe.

Originally from Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, the artist blends jazz, soul, and urban traditional African sounds.

“Growing up my father used to play all sorts of music from Brenda Fassie, Oliver Mtukudzi, Lebo Mathosa, Izingane Zoma, Cher, you name it- I absolutely looked up to them. I’d spend most of my Saturdays singing to the mirror with a broom. My mother was already placing me to sing at people’s weddings, and graduation parties and of course I was a regular song starter at the school assembly and church choir. I always somehow saw myself as this star and loved how performing made me feel.”

She tells EWN that she invites listeners to "Breathe" as they experience personal life journeys and take their healing (Ikhambi) in this album. Each track offers a dose of insight, comfort, hope, and strength.

“Late last year I did a private listening event for this album. I have received so many messages from people who attended about how much it has made them not feel alone, get assurance, find comfort and truly find a safe space to relate about their mental health amongst other things. When you write honestly you are just bound to touch lives.”

Her album launch also marks the beginning of her nationwide tour, which will offer audiences an immersive and deeply personal live experience.

Zethe uses her voice to inspire change and unity through art. Her music is deeply rooted in advocating for mental health and social justice.

“The feeling of performing live on its own is remarkable. I am coming with a 7-piece band- we bringing the heat. I can't wait to pour my heart into this performance to feel, dance, cry and celebrate with everyone kusazoba mnandi.”

She excitedly shares with  EWN what she looks forward to about being able to perform at Mamakashaka & Friends.

“First of all, have you seen the aesthetics there? Chefs kiss. Besides that, the space truly is for the arts, in the heart of Johannesburg (Braamfontein) and attracts a great audience of young people. I am collaborating with the amazing NarowBi team as we will be using their monthly curated live music concept Soundcheck for this show.”

Zethe talks about how when she creates music it’s about her writing her thoughts and feelings. And then coming up with melodies separately and combining the two when the time is right.

“Sometimes I honestly find myself randomly singing something then recording it on my phone to come back to it at another time.”