South African music lovers, get ready: three of the country’s most distinctive voices are coming together in one highly anticipated track. Sjava, Msaki, and Jesse Clegg are set to release their new single, “Wayside Lover,” on Friday, September 19, and fans are already counting down the hours.
This isn’t just any collaboration. Sjava’s textured, soulful storytelling, Msaki’s emotive clarity, and Clegg’s melodic sensibilities promise a track that is both powerful and deeply reflective.
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The EP Behind the Single: “Entropy”
“Wayside Lover” is the first glimpse into Clegg and Msaki’s upcoming joint EP, Entropy. Msaki shared insight into the EP’s concept, explaining that entropy—“the degradation of matter and energy in the universe into a state of uniformity”—serves as a metaphor for life, decay, and transformation.
“One may approach this idea with despair or with curiosity and acceptance,” Msaki said. “We are excited to let this story unfold and to share where some of these songs have come from.”
Clegg added that having Sjava on the track was a natural fit. “Both of us have deep admiration for Sjava’s music and the unique place he holds in South African culture, so having him contribute to this song is an honour and a thrill,” he explained.
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Why Fans Are Excited
For many, the excitement lies in how the three voices will intertwine. Sjava’s rich, resonant tone is expected to anchor the track, bringing his signature storytelling to life. Msaki’s emotive delivery adds a reflective, intimate layer, while Clegg’s melodic lines tie everything together, creating harmony that feels effortless yet profound.
On social media, fans have been sharing their anticipation. Many are praising the trio’s previous solo work and speculating about how their styles will merge on the single. One Twitter user wrote, “Sjava + Msaki + Clegg = I can’t even imagine the magic! Counting down to Friday.”
Upcoming Live Performance
The collaboration doesn’t end with the single. Clegg and Msaki have teased a special show at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Gauteng on October 19. While the full reason behind the performance remains under wraps, the duo promises it will be a memorable occasion.
A Collaboration Worth the Wait
“Wayside Lover” is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most talked-about South African music releases. With the combination of Sjava’s storytelling, Msaki’s emotional resonance, and Clegg’s melodic charm, this is a track fans won’t want to miss.
As the countdown continues to Friday’s release, one thing is clear: South Africa’s music scene is in for a moment of magic, and “Wayside Lover” is leading the charge.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X {@Jesse_Clegg}
