Sabela by Luyolo Lenga

Luyolo’s songs implant a conscious appreciation of the spiritual, social, economic and psychological challenges found in many communities in South Africa and the world. Songs in his album Sabela like “Sabela” as the title of the song implies “Hid the Calling”, is a song of spiritual awakening within one’s self. “Madoda” narrates the abuse and suffering of women and children which often lead to the senseless violations and killing of women (femicide) in a manner that initiates a discourse on the issue.
Across the world, as is the case in South Africa, many still live under systematic poverty which is underpinned by unemployment, lack of proper housing and sanitation, no access to adequate education often due to mismanagement of state funds, ineffective oversight and inadequate enforcement of accountability.
The songs titled “Enyanyeni” and “Kwenzeka Ntoni?” inspires thoughtfulness on this matter. The song “Unmtu” is a song that gives hope and a sense of inclusion to those who may find themselves vulnerable, cast out or are considered different or strange. After composing the song, Luyolo described it as a song that restores a sense of identity and belonging. “Livumil’icamagu” inspires hope as it tells a story of triumph through trials and tribulations. “Kwelamaqabimbola” demonstrates and celebrates the most beautiful aspects of African culture and customs in a somber correction of the misperceptions often curated by global media.

Implanting a conscious appreciation of the spiritual and socio-economic, Mdantsane raised composer and author, Luyolo Lenga, pays homage to the isiXhosa language; accessing ancestral sounds from ancient bow and percussion instruments, utilizing classical techniques that traverse through culture and time by gathering elements of isingqi sakwantu, jazz and a range of contemporary music styles.