BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
HLANE – New cross-border collaboration explores heartbreak, self-doubt and emotional closure.
Eswatini’s rising musical talent Saneliso Shongwe, widely known as Sayz, has released his deeply emotional new single titled “Was I Bad?”, officially launched on November 14, 2025. The track features Zambian singer Hills Nation, forming a powerful collaboration that is already striking a chord with listeners across the region.
“Was I Bad?” unpacks the emotional turmoil that follows the end of a relationship, capturing the lingering questions of self-blame and reflection. The song speaks directly to those who have found themselves revisiting the past, wondering where things went wrong and whether they were somehow the cause. Its relatable narrative has quickly resonated with audiences who have faced similar heartbreak.
Sayz shared that the song’s inspiration came first from the music itself. “The beat hit us emotionally from the moment we heard it,” he said. “It carried so much feeling, and both Hills Nation and I followed the theme the beat brought to us.”
He added that the second layer of inspiration came from real experiences he has observed. “I’ve seen a lot of people losing their loved ones and blaming one partner as the downfall of the relationship. I wanted to write something that signals to many hearts that they’re not alone in this terrifying situation.”
With its soulful production, honest storytelling, and cross-border artistic synergy, “Was I Bad?” marks an important milestone in Sayz’s musical journey. The single offers comfort and connection to anyone navigating the emotional aftermath of a breakup, adding depth to the evolving contemporary sound of Southern Africa.
The song is now available on digital platforms. Listen here:
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(Courtesy)
