Super talented South African singer-songwriter and rapper Jabulani Hadebe, known as Sjava, has released a live rendition of five tracks. Recorded during ‘The 2016 Tour’ at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria in December 2024, the project brings Sjava’s storytelling prowess to the stage.

The decision to call the Afrosoul project, Inkanyezi, which means star, shows the important role that live performances have played in his career. The project encapsulates the essence of his widely followed live shows, which have gained him a large following, with fans traveling long distances to have a glimpse of Sjava’s emotive storytelling through his music.

With the release of the live project announced before the tour curtains opened, label 1020 Cartel banked on faith and plan despite the possibilities of technical difficulties to make this masterpiece work. This live project reminds fans why they fell in love with Sjava’s music, and he delivered a brilliant stage performance that sent goosebumps through the audience.

When listening to the project, one can feel the energy, raw emotion, and beauty in Sjava’s voice. The five tracks on this project explore variations of romance from its highs to its lows.

From the opening track, Kuye, the enthusiasm of the attendees is palpable. From the first note, Sjava delivers his performance with incredible depth and a great deal of sincerity. The slow chords build up emotion, setting the tone for a song about heartbreak. Sjava pleads with God to help him heal and not return to his former lover. The track strikes a chord with listeners, echoing the experiences of those navigating the pain of toxic relationships.

The second rendition, Sleepover, intensifies the intimacy in Sjava's live performance as he passionately speaks about the joys of shared moments with his lover, cherishing the comfort of being together. His rap approach makes a short appearance, adding depth.

Sitting third on the project, Madibuseng paints a picture of emotional turbulence in a toxic relationship. He talks about his lover's shifting emotions through colors—giving him green lights of love and pushing him away when it turns red—likening them to a chameleon always changing.

Uyena stands out as an affectionate declaration to the All-Knower. Sjava praises the divine force that sees and shapes the future, offering a spiritual approach to the live project. Meanwhile, Indoda Enjani closes the EP with a commentary on love mixed with external distractions.

With the Inkanyezi EP, Sjava shows why he is one of the compelling voices in the South African music industry. Banking on his ability and knack for live performances, he delivers a stunning project that listeners will not forget in a hurry.

SONGWRITER: Jabulani Makhubo, Katleho Motlala, Kgotso Agripa Tsotetsi, Lesole Paulus Matlabe, Mfanafuthi Ruff Nkosi, Mthintheki Ennocent Mzizi, Tinashe Freddie jnr Magidi, Muziwokuthula Mabuza, Isaiah Nkhalo Zuza.

PRODUCERS: Mfanafuthi Ruff Nkosi, Lesole Paulus Matlabe, Katleho Motlala, Mthintheki Ennocent Mzizi, Kgotso Agripa Tsotetsi, Tinashe Freddie jnr Magidi, Muziwokuthula Mabuza, Isaiah Nkhalo Zuza.

The album art for Inkanyezi (Live), a live rendition of the five tracks EP by South African musician and rapper Sjava.

Inkanyezi (Live) EP by Sjava … where Soul meets Intricate Storytelling

The album art for Inkanyezi (Live), a live rendition of the five tracks EP by South African musician and rapper Sjava.

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