BY NOSIPHO MABUZA
NHLANGANO- Afropop artist Blaq J brings heartfelt storytelling to life through his new release.
Afropop sensation Blaq J, born Sibongakonke Simelane from Makhonza, Nhlangano, is ready to captivate fans once again with his upcoming single “Why Ungijolela”, which will be released together with a music visualizer. The passionate artist, known for blending soulful African melodies with modern rhythms, says the song reflects real-life emotions and experiences.
“I grew up loving singing and music while living with my grandparents, who used to listen to Soul Brothers. As I grew up, I fell in love with African sounds,” said Blaq J. His sound is deeply influenced by legends such as Soul Brothers, Sjava, and Mqhumeni (Ibhova), all of whom shaped his passion for storytelling through music.
Speaking about the inspiration behind his latest track, he explained, “‘Why Ungijolela’ is inspired by what has been happening to me in the previous months. I was dating a girl, and her phone number was always busy.”
The single was produced by Blaq J himself alongside TN$ Savvy, who handled the mastering. “I wrote the song and produced the beat, then TN$ mastered it,” he shared. The track explores themes of heartbreak and emotional truth, encouraging listeners to accept that relationships can face unpredictable challenges. “No matter how your partner promised to always be with you, there are a lot of things that will happen to your relationship,” he reflected.
Fans can expect a realistic and emotional visualizer that mirrors the song’s message. “From the visualizer, you should expect more realistic challenges that happen in many relationships,” he said, adding that this marks a special milestone in his career. “I decided to make a visualizer because it’s going to be my first video and second release.”
Despite facing challenges on his journey, Blaq J continues to push forward with resilience. “I once went to a gig to perform, and the guy who promised me a slot acted like he didn’t know anything about it. I stood the whole night and didn’t perform. Even in my community and family, people didn’t take me seriously. I worked very hard to be where I am now, even if it’s a small move,” he said.
Through his music, Blaq J aims to spread positivity and hope. “I want people to always know that I’ll always be the same person, humble, loving, caring, and always there for them. I want to give them hope with my music that there’s always tomorrow,” he said.
He closed with a heartfelt message to his supporters: “I would really appreciate love and support from them. It’s going to mean a lot to me. More vibe, more reality, one love. They should expect more after ‘Why Ungijolela’.”
(Courtesy Pics)
