South African Amapiano singer Nobantu Vilakazi collaborates with Mr Amigo, Justin99 and Hotfurze on “Thatha” to turn a tough moment into one of her most awaited songs of the year.
And the narrative behind this record counts. Nobantu’s much-awaited “Vila Fos,” made with Benzoo and DBN Gogo, was delayed internally, which was beyond her control. She didn’t go quiet; she came straight back with “Thatha. That perseverance speaks something about where her head’s at. Because artists who persist in going thru adversities tend to create more dedicated fans than those who disappear till everything is perfect.
Justin99 and Hotfurze both bring proven Amapiano reputation to the partnership. Hotfurze’s “Before The Storm EP” and Justin99’s feature on “KU’NJALO” with ShakaMan YKTV and CowBoii are two artists who are on top of their game right now. Both have been part of many noteworthy releases in 2026 – Mr Amigo provides another layer to ensure the four-way lineup feels full but not overstuffed.
“Thatha” glides cleanly throughout Nobantu’s unique vocal delivery, the loud chanting, the unmistakable “Khurukhutsu” energy, the raw expressive quality her admirers call her out for especially. She doesn’t change her style for the cooperation. The artists in question build onto her identity, not against it. So the record is hers, indisputably, from start to finish.
The internet response from the fans also validated what the pre-release excitement was suggesting — “Thatha” was one of the songs her audience voted as the most urgent after hearing samples. Records that come with that kind of pre-existing audience investment tend to hit differently on first play.
Have a look at “Thatha” and let us know if it’s better than what “Vila Fos” would have been – leave your honest thoughts below!
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