Eswatini artist Nolwethu Nelisiwe Mkhatshwa, known professionally as Nelly Noll, has unveiled her latest single, Mkhatshwa, a heartfelt tribute to her roots, heritage, and identity. Released on March 1, 2025, the song blends Afro-soul, Afro-house, and Swazi soul, infused with subtle R&B influences, creating a unique sound that speaks to both modern and traditional African music.
Noll’s inspiration for Mkhatshwa stems from her upbringing in Siteki, nestled in the Lubombo Mountains, where Swazi traditions, storytelling, and rhythms shaped her music. She sought to craft a song that not only tells her personal story but also resonates with listeners who take pride in their own cultural backgrounds. “I wanted to create something that would connect people to their roots,” Noll says.
While the initial plan was to work with a different beat, a miscommunication with her producer led to a completely new sound, which Noll immediately embraced. The melody felt right from the first listen, leading her to carefully craft the lyrics to match the emotion and spiritual connection she aimed to convey. To give the track an organic feel, Noll collaborated with Ayanda Dlamini, who played the lead guitar, adding an extra layer of depth to the song.
The recording process wasn’t without challenges, as Noll found the mastering stage particularly difficult. Originally set for release on December 6, 2024, the track was delayed as Noll made crucial adjustments to ensure it met her vision. The final version, according to Noll, was worth the wait. Mkhatshwa carries a powerful message of embracing one’s roots and finding pride in where you come from. For Noll, the song is a celebration of her bloodline, her hometown, and her Swazi heritage. She hopes that the song will inspire listeners to embrace their own identity and heritage with pride.
With this release, Noll has introduced a new Swati sound into the Eswatini music scene, challenging the notion that singing in siSwati is difficult, and instead, embracing her mother tongue with confidence. Through Mkhatshwa, she aims to showcase Eswatini’s cultural richness while presenting a sound that remains relevant in the broader African music landscape.
Listen to “Mkhatshwa” below
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