The South African DJ and producer brings rhythm, cultural storytelling and a message of hope to a soulful collaboration inspired by the journey of a breadwinner.
South Africa’s Afro-House scene continues to make waves with the release of Umlayezo, a soulful collaboration between DJ Soso, Lacole RSA and Refilwe Sediti. Blending infectious three-step rhythms with a deeply relatable story of family, ambition and responsibility, the single offers more than just a dance-floor experience, it carries a message that resonates far beyond the music.
At the centre of this collaboration is DJ Soso, whose contribution to the production helps shape the track’s pulsating, club-ready sound. By bringing together hypnotic Afro-House rhythms and emotive vocal performances, the collaboration captures the energy of South Africa’s evolving dance music landscape while remaining rooted in authentic storytelling.
The title, Umlayezo, translates to “the message” in isiZulu, setting the tone for a song built around the sacrifices and aspirations of someone working in the city to provide for their family back home.
The story follows a hardworking breadwinner who sends word to his rural village, promising to return with money to uplift his loved ones. It is a narrative familiar to many South Africans, particularly those who leave their homes and communities in pursuit of better opportunities.
Lacole RSA’s tenor vocals anchor the verses and hook, while Refilwe Sediti adds depth through her rich alto voice. Her memorable refrain, “sobuya nemali, sobuya noshintshi” — expressing the promise of returning with money and change — gives the song an instantly recognisable sing-along moment.
DJ Soso’s production contribution brings these elements together, balancing the emotional weight of the lyrics with the rhythmic intensity needed to keep dance floors moving. The result is a sound that allows listeners to connect with the story while surrendering to the groove.
What makes Umlayezo particularly compelling is its ability to bridge two worlds: the personal and the celebratory. Its message speaks to the determination of people who work tirelessly for their families, while its energetic production makes it equally suited to clubs, radio playlists and social gatherings.
The track has already been tested with audiences in Johannesburg, Lagos and the United Kingdom, where it has reportedly received enthusiastic responses for its addictive energy and cultural authenticity. This early reception points to the song’s potential to connect with listeners beyond South Africa’s borders.
For DJ Soso, the collaboration represents an opportunity to contribute to a sound that celebrates African identity while embracing the international appeal of Afro-House. Working alongside Lacole RSA and Refilwe Sediti, the DJ and producer forms part of a musical partnership that places storytelling at the heart of the dance experience.