BY NOSIPHO MABUZA
MBABANE – Two generations of Eswatini’s finest musical talent unite as rising star Sarnilo teams up with legendary vocalist Nana Magagula to deliver a timeless collaboration set to captivate audiences.
Sarnilo is once again making waves with her brand-new single “Don’t Be Shy”, a radiant summer anthem that brings together the new school and the legendary. The track, due for release on Friday, 24 October 2025, marks Nana Magagula’s long-awaited return to the spotlight after more than two decades away from the recording scene.
A vibrant fusion of Afrobeats, soulful vocals, and a touch of Portuguese rhythm, the song is anchored by a groovy, captivating bassline that promises to dominate playlists this summer. Produced live in studio, Don’t Be Shy features Vuyo Nsibande on keys, with Lethumusa and Brainz handling production, ensuring a rich and authentic sound that bridges both generations and genres.
Nana Magagula, celebrated for her award-winning album “Five Loaves and Two Fish”, remains one of Eswatini’s most beloved voices. Her soulful blend of jazz, gospel, and storytelling has shaped the country’s music landscape, inspiring countless artists. After more than 20 years away from the limelight, her collaboration with Sarnilo represents a full-circle moment, an emotional and artistic exchange between two eras of Eswatini music.
“Working with a living legend like Nana Magagula was humbling and inspiring,” said Sarnilo. “Her artistry carries a depth that only comes from experience and truth. Having her return to music through this song feels like witnessing history in motion.”
Don’t Be Shy not only celebrates Nana Magagula’s enduring legacy but also showcases Sarnilo’s evolution as one of Eswatini’s most promising voices. The single serves as a prelude to her upcoming sophomore project, “Makuhwalala”, set for release on 14 November 2025. The album promises to explore themes of love, loss, and resilience, all delivered through Sarnilo’s signature blend of soulful storytelling and modern African soundscapes.
For Nana Magagula, the collaboration is both a return and a renewal, a chance to reconnect with fans old and new. Her seasoned vocals complement Sarnilo’s youthful energy, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
With Don’t Be Shy, Sarnilo and Nana Magagula have crafted more than just a song, they’ve created a musical conversation across generations, proving that great music transcends time, age, and style.
As anticipation builds ahead of its release, Don’t Be Shy stands as a celebration of Eswatini’s musical heritage and its vibrant future, a bridge between the soulful past and the electrifying present.
(Courtesy Pic)
