AS South Africa continues to celebrate Women’s Month, Gqeberha-born singer and songwriter Andiswa “Andy” Ndlazilwana, has released her latest single, Isicelo Sam, a heartfelt plea to her ancestors for deliverance, happiness, peace, and fulfilment.
This soul-stirring ballad speaks to Ndlazilwana’s growth as an artist and, her commitment to using her music as a force for healing and transformation.
The song, which translates to “My Prayer” in English, is a deeply personal and emotional reflection of her own experiences with pain, sorrow, and darkness.
“This song is born from the depths of my darkest moments,” she said. “I’ve walked through the shadows, felt the weight of sorrow, and endured the pain of a broken spirit. My tears have been many, my heart heavy with sadness and hurt.”
Isicelo Sam is more than just a personal prayer, it is a beacon of hope for all those who find themselves lost in darkness, unable to muster the strength to pray.
“In those moments of despair, let this song be their voice, my prayer to my ancestors, offering hope and solace to all who need it,” the artist explained.
As a woman in the music industry, Ndlazilwana is no stranger to challenges and setbacks, but she remains committed to her craft and her community, using her platform to uplift and inspire others.
“I believe that music has the power to heal and transform us,” she expressed. “I hope that Isicelo Sam can be a source of comfort and strength for all who listen to it.”
She hopes people see her musical journey as a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Hailing from Motherwell, she boasts a lineage with royal connections, being the granddaughter of the legendary late musician, Victor Ndlazilwana. Much like her grandfather, she is deeply committed to her craft and education. While spending several years in the background as a backup vocalist, Ndlazilwana took a bold step forward in 2016 when she assumed the role of a band leader.
Her talent quickly earned her recognition, and she was chosen as one of the featured performers at the inaugural Nelson Mandela Arts Festival, and the subsequent Mamela Festival for two consecutive years.
Ndlazilwana’s debut at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival in 2018 was nothing short of spectacular, as she clinched a Standard Bank Ovation Award.
Subsequently, she released her inaugural single, Nomalanga Pamunotangira, collaborating with her bassist and producer, Edgar Muzah, and joining forces with artists from both the Eastern Cape and Zimbabwe; they received the ESP Young Legends award, affording them the opportunity to grace the stage at the Cape Town Jazz Festival in 2019.
Notably, some ofNdlazilwana’scompositions can be found on the SAMA28-nominated album, Son of a Tribe, by Edgar Muzah. Venturing into the realm of live production direction, she presented Intlombe with her dedicated team, earning them a Standard Bank Bronze Ovation Award.
Additionally, her involvement in The Vocal Explosion by Asanda Mqiki led to yet another accolade, the Standard Bank Silver Ovation Award.
Though her journey may still be in its early stages, Ndlazilwana is a rising force to be reckoned with.
