Johannesburg – South African Afro house producer Sun-El Musician has released his fourth studio album titled Under the Sun, a project that brings together a wide range of African and international voices under his signature warm and immersive sound.
The album, released in 2026, sees the celebrated house mainstay expanding a musical direction he has refined over the years. Rooted in South African musicality, the body of work blends emotional depth with dance floor energy, offering listeners both introspection and movement.
Among the standout tracks is “Umlayezo”, built on soft pads and layered vocals from acclaimed singer Ami Faku. On “Love Is Love”, R and B icon Deborah Cox rides a buzzing Afro tech pulse that carries her unmistakable voice. Strobing Afro tech rhythms shape songs such as “The Rise”, “You Know It’s Me”, “Umlungu Wami” and “Nguwe”, where the powerful vocals of singer and composer Msaki weave through dense layers of synths and percussion.
On “Music”, atmospheric keys and soft percussion wrap around the smooth delivery of South African R and B singer Manana. Rappers Nasty C and Touchline add melodic verses, joined by Los Angeles based Cameroonian vocalist Lorine Chia.
The album continues Sun-El’s tradition of long term creative partnerships. Familiar collaborators such as Ami Faku and Msaki return alongside Mthunzi, Mavhungu and Miči. Behind the scenes, producers including Heavy-K, Chronical Deep, Thakzin, Jordan Arts and Mpho.Wav contribute textural layers while maintaining the album’s cohesive direction.
Other artists featured on Under the Sun include Zakes Bantwini and British artist Youngr, as well as emerging voices Monna Hela, Mavhungu Mueda, Sai Hle and Tefo Foxx.
Ahead of the full album release, Sun-El shared a summer sampler timed with the South African festive season. The sampler features “Umlungu Wami” with Zakes Bantwini, “Imali” with Ami Faku and Tefo Foxx, “Muloro” featuring Thakzin and Mavhungu Mueda, and “Another Minute” with Youngr. Previously released singles “Koyika” and “The Rise” are also included.
Speaking about the release, Sun-El Musician said: “This summer sampler is a reflection of where my heart is creatively warm, intentional, and open. I hope listeners feel the love and honesty behind every sound.”
Listen to Under The Sun by Sun-El Musician
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