Sobzeen launched his album in Sandton recently
By Nomazulu Moyo
Sandton —The upmarket heart of Sandton played host to a vibrant media launch on Thursday, 7 August, for IThemba Lami, the debut album by DJ and producer Sobzeen, real name Zakhele Mbuyisa.
For years, the Soweto-born artist has worked quietly in the background as a ghostwriter and producer for other musicians, but IThemba Lami marks his move into the spotlight.
Speaking to Joburg Times at the launch, Sobzeen said the album’s title is deeply personal.
“IThemba Lami is my only hope. My hope is in music, and even God is my hope,” he explained. “This project is my way of putting that hope into sound.”
Sobzeen’s journey started as a pianist in school, later experimenting with hip-hop before fully embracing amapiano. Along the way, he collaborated with both household names and rising talents. But he’s quick to clarify the “ghost producer” label.
“I never planned to be a ghost producer. I was assisting others with the expectation that they would also help me, but the situation became one-sided. Before I realised it, I found myself dedicating more time to the background than to my work.”
IThemba Lami features a blend of established and emerging artists, including Russell Zuma, Pali the Vocalist, Casey Ntuli, Zinhle, Sips, Busi, and Yumi. Sobzeen said his choice of collaborators was based on authenticity, not fame.
“When I work with someone, I want the sound to be authentic. My job is to make sure the music feels real.”
Asked which track he believes could be the album’s breakout, Sobzeen pointed to a gospel-inspired song.
“From a business perspective, that song can be big. It’s different, and I think people will connect with it.”
The launch drew media, industry players, and close collaborators, signalling Sobzeen’s official arrival as a solo artist after years in the background.
“Standing alone can be intimidating, but this is my opportunity to grow. IThemba Lami is just the beginning,” he said. Amongst those who graced this event were Vusi Nova and Pastor Mboro.
The album is available now on all major streaming platforms, and if the excitement in Sandton was anything to go by, Sobzeen’s days of staying behind the curtain are over.
