From chart-topping hits to viral revival: iFani drops new EP, “Msebenzi Wam”

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Years after dominating the charts, the award-winning rapper iFani returns with the release of his new EP, Msebenzi Wam. 

The project arrives at a defining moment in his career, following his highly publicised comeback, the viral resurgence of his classic track “Shake”, and the release of “Shake” [Remix].

Rooted in authenticity, resilience, and cultural pride, Msebenzi Wam captures iFani’s evolution as both an artist and a person. The EP reflects the journey behind the headlines, a story of stepping away, rebuilding, and returning with renewed purpose.

“This new chapter with Asanda Empires is about growth, purpose, and pushing my artistry further than ever before. There’s a lot of new music and creative work on the way, and I’m excited to share it with the world.”

The EP features eight tracks such as “Kwakhe Kwanje Phi Na” featuring Csana and Snymaan, “Ndivuselelele” featuring Vuyo Manyike and “Msebenzi Wam”, just to name but a few.

iFani describes the project as more than a musical release, and he said it is a statement of identity, reflection, and purpose. 

Known for blending sharp lyricism with isiXhosa and deeply rooted storytelling, he continues to champion music that is both accessible and meaningful.

“Coming back into the music space has been a deeply humbling experience. I am grateful for the love and support from fans who have stayed with me and those who are only discovering my journey now.”

After years away from the spotlight, he says his perspective on life and music has shifted significantly. During his time away, he rediscovered the value of family, stillness, and purpose.

“During my time away all my views and beliefs changed. I found value in people and in little things that bring happiness, like raising kids, taking long walks, going to the beach, and cultural things,” he reckons.

“I didn’t follow music at the time; I was happy with family and understanding my place or purpose in life.”

The viral resurgence of iFani

The release of Msebenzi Wam follows renewed public interest in iFani’s earlier work, particularly “Shake”, which has found a new audience on TikTok. 

The viral resurgence has introduced his sound to a younger generation while reconnecting long-time fans with the artist’s original impact on South African hip-hop.

“It is exciting and heartwarming. I performed a lot for kids’ shows back in the day, more than any other artist. Now those kids have grown and it warms my heart to see that they remember. I’m really touched and thankful,” he explained.

The artist also continues to speak openly about the importance of authenticity in his work and his commitment to preserving isiXhosa through music.

He added: “We were taught at UCT that as engineers we should create for others. I saw IsiXhosa as a ‘dying’ language in the future because with every generation, more IsiXhosa-speaking kids were switching to English.

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“So I decided to engineer it back into the system through music and entertainment. I’ve learnt from my failures and I’m back to continue my journey to make isiXhosa fun and preserve it for generations.”

Msebenzi Wam arrives as both a creative reset and a reaffirmation of iFani’s artistic identity, one shaped by originality, discipline, and a refusal to follow trends.

“My sound has always been unique, hence the name iFani, ayifani; it’s not the same. I never followed trends. I’ve always been a thinker outside the box. And now, many years later, that originality still shines,” he concluded.