Why Zamajobe's return after a decade feels like a fresh start

ZAMAJOBE Sithole, known simply as Zamajobe, is one of South Africa's most distinctive voices.

- LUTHO PASIYA

ZAMAJOBE stands among South Africa's most distinctive and influential musical voices. I Supplied

Her journey in music began in the township of Vosloorus, where she grew up surrounded by the sounds of community choirs, street melodies and the gospel tradition.

She began singing in her local church choir at the age of nine, an experience that instilled in her discipline, vocal training and an early love for performing in front of audiences.

Her first major mentor was Pastor Benjamin Dube, the acclaimed gospel artist whose influence on her development was profound.

At home, Zamajobe pressed her father for a guitar, and once she got it, she began experimenting with writing her own songs.

The instrument became her creative companion. Her breakthrough moment came when she entered Idols South Africa in 2003.

While she did not win, her performances on the show introduced her to a wider audience and made clear that her unique style - blending Afro-jazz, soul and funk - set her apart. Soon after, she began working on her debut album Ndawo Yami, released in 2004.

The album was a defining moment in her career. Ndawo Yami produced hit singles and earned her the Best Newcomer award at the 2005 South African Music Awards (Samas).

It also led to a nomination at the 2005 MTV Europe Music Awards for Best African Act. The record was celebrated for its originality and for the way it captured her fusion of influences while still sounding fresh and authentic.