Album: Isithembu Album by Zulu Queens ,

Release Date: 28 August 2026

Isithembu is the debut collaborative album from Zulu Queens, the musical partnership formed by South African vocalists Lwah Ndlunkulu and MaWhoo. The project brings the two artists together around a Maskandi-forward sound, combining Lwah Ndlunkulu’s traditional and Afro-pop influences with MaWhoo’s smooth, soulful vocal style.

The title “Isithembu” traditionally relates to a polygamous family structure, but within the album’s concept, the duo reinterprets the idea around sisterhood, unity and their musical bond. The project celebrates women working together while remaining strongly connected to Zulu identity and cultural storytelling.

Musically, Isithembu places Maskandi at its foundation, incorporating traditional Zulu musical elements, guitar-driven instrumentation and storytelling while introducing contemporary production and the distinctive vocal styles of both artists. The result connects traditional Maskandi with a younger generation of South African listeners.

The album also brings established and emerging Maskandi voices into the Zulu Queens concept, with collaborators including Feza, Izingane Zoma, Mthandeni SK, and Siya Ntuli. Its lead single, “Distance” featuring Feza, introduced the project ahead of the full release and focuses on longing and maintaining an emotional connection despite physical separation.

Isithembu Album marks the beginning of Zulu Queens as a collaborative act and represents an important meeting point between contemporary South African music and traditional Maskandi. Across its 14 tracks, Lwah Ndlunkulu and MaWhoo use their contrasting vocal styles to celebrate Zulu culture, sisterhood, heritage and the continuing evolution of Maskandi music.