Photo of Zaghrah Anthony

Babes Wodumo Returns with ‘Mabheshingo,’ Honouring Her Late Husband and Reclaiming the Gqom Throne

12 months By Zaghrah Anthony

Babes Wodumo Returns: A Queen Reclaims Her Throne

After a five-year hiatus, Babes Wodumo, born Bongekile Simelane, is back on the South African music scene with a vengeance. Her latest album, Mabheshingo, marks not just a return but a celebration of resilience, love, and legacy.

Fans remember the heartache that prompted her break: the sudden passing of her husband and award-winning producer, Mampintsha, who suffered a stroke the day before Christmas in 2022. The couple had tied the knot in April 2021, and just months later welcomed their son, affectionately nicknamed Spontshi.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bongekile Simelane (@babes_wodumo)

A Tribute Through Music

In an emotional Instagram announcement, Wodumo revealed that Mabheshingo features several songs Mampintsha left behind, allowing his musical voice to live on.

“I added a few songs @mampintsha_shimora left me with, can’t wait for everyone to hear it. Yep! I’m still the Queen of Gqom,” she wrote.

She reflected on her journey, noting that life had taken her through highs and lows, but she’s emerged stronger.

“A queen knows when to stop and take it all in… everyone has been wanting to sit on the throne, but the gqom game was locked and only the true queen has the key. Now she has returned to unlock the throne, the gate and chains because the gqom queen has returned stronger than ever.”

Fans Celebrate the Comeback

The response on social media was immediate and emotional. Former Generations actress Thuli Phongolo posted,

“I literally need a wall to hold onto… weeeeeeh maaaaaaa!!! 💃💃💃.”

Other fans flooded her comments with admiration and anticipation:

  • @nobuhle_kheswa: “I’m so proud of you 😭😭❤️❤️❤️.”

  • @kaymatushe: “This is my only reason to stay alive! Can’t wait 😭🔥.”

  • @memorymapepamuzic: “🔥🔥🔥 Mabheshingo 😍😍 Unique 😍 wena Wodumo … Love u babe.”

The Gqom Queen’s Legacy

Babes Wodumo is no stranger to breaking barriers. Her debut single, Wololo, catapulted gqom into mainstream attention and established her as one of the most powerful figures in the genre. With Mabheshingo, she not only honors Mampintsha’s legacy but reaffirms her place at the top of the gqom hierarchy.

The album is a reminder that even after personal tragedy and industry pressure, a true artist can reclaim her throne, stronger, wiser, and more fearless than ever.

Source: IOL

Featured Image: News365

LIFESTYLE

Natasha Mkhize on nurturing South Africa’s next generation of world-class talent

Through her work as Executive for Strategic Relations at the Ruta Sechaba Foundation, Natasha Mkhize oversees initiatives designed to grant academically and athletically gifted learners from financially constrained backgrounds access to high-quality education at Curro schools across the country. Also see: Bayanda Walaza continues rise with Grand Prix Brescia victory In this deep dive, Mkhize […]

Read more...
WORK & MONEY

Domestic workers’ rights: 4 Rules every household should know

Domestic workers play an important role in many South African households, from cleaning and laundry to childcare, gardening and caring for older or sick family members. However, employing someone in a private household also comes with legal responsibilities. Also see: Primary workers’ rights you should know as a woman South Africa’s labour laws provide domestic […]

Read more...
ENTERTAINMENT

Theo Kgosinkwe joins dancing fans in surprise moment

Mafikizolo’s Theo Kgosinkwe gave a group of fans an unforgettable surprise when he joined them as they danced to one of the duo’s songs. Also see: Theo Kgosinkwe celebrates 50th birthday The musician shared the heartwarming moment with his followers, revealing that the women had no idea he was about to join them. ‘They didn’t […]

Read more...