A New Chapter for Ciza
For South African singer and songwriter Ciza, the remix of Isaka (6am) is more than just a collaboration. It is a personal milestone and a symbol of how music can connect cultures. Released with Nigerian heavyweights Tems and Omah Lay, the track represents a powerful moment for African music.
Ciza, whose real name is Nkululeko Nciza, shared the moment with his parents, legendary music figures TK Nciza and Nhlanhla Mafu. Posting a video of the studio session, he admitted that the first thing he wanted to do was play the track for them. “Proof that good music brings people together,” he wrote.
The Rise of Isaka (6am)
What started as a late-night studio experiment with friends quickly became a viral movement. Ciza recalls performing the song live and watching the internet explode. Soon after, the #IsakaDanceChallenge took over social media, catapulting the song to global attention.
The official video hit one million views within two days, cementing the track as a breakout success. Since then, Isaka has carried Ciza onto stages worldwide alongside acts like Black Coffee.
By the time he turned 24, Ciza could look back on Isaka (6am) as South Africa’s most-streamed song on Spotify for the year, an achievement that highlighted his growing influence in the music industry.
View this post on Instagram
A Family Affair
Ciza is quick to credit his journey to the support of both his family and his hometown. With his parents’ guidance and the encouragement of close friends, he has managed to stay grounded while navigating international recognition. “Every time a DJ spins or remixes Isaka, it feels like it can’t get bigger,” he said, “until Tems and Omah Lay came on board.”
South Africa Meets Nigeria
The remix was created with Jazzworx and Thukuthela, the production duo of Kamohelo Monese and Kgotso Dube. It blends the rhythmic energy of South African beats with the soulful, melodic influence of Nigerian music. The result is a sound that reflects a new era of pan-African collaboration.
With Tems’ distinctive voice and Omah Lay’s smooth delivery, the remix carries a fresh energy that builds on the original’s momentum while expanding its reach. Fans across the continent are already hailing it as a groundbreaking moment for African music.
View this post on Instagram
Release and Reaction
The official remix, Isaka II (6am), drops on Thursday, August 28, at 8pm across major platforms. For Ciza, it represents both a celebration of his past and a step into his future. For fans, it is another chance to witness African artists creating a global sound rooted in authenticity.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: Eswatini Positive News
