By Sitha Maliwa:
South Africa’s Gqom movement has never stood still, but few artists have dared to challenge its boundaries as boldly as Lelowhatsgood. With the release of his explosive new EP, Rebirth Is Necessary, the SAMA-nominated creative is not simply releasing new music – he is igniting a new chapter for one of the country’s most influential genres.
Fresh off the success of his acclaimed EP Next Level and the momentum generated by the lead single Ba Ko Kae, Lelowhatsgood returns with a five-track project that refuses to play by the rules. Rebirth Is Necessary is a fearless artistic statement that stretches the sonic and cultural possibilities of Gqom, blending tradition with innovation in a way that feels both revolutionary and unmistakably South African.
For years, Gqom has been recognised for its hypnotic rhythms and powerful vocals delivered predominantly in isiZulu and isiXhosa. While paying homage to those foundations, Lelowhatsgood boldly expands the genre’s identity by embracing multiple languages and diverse musical influences, creating a richer, more inclusive soundscape that reflects the complexity of modern South African culture.
“Rebirth Is Necessary is about allowing music to evolve in the same way we do,” says Lelowhatsgood. “I’ve always believed that our stories, our languages and our identities deserve to exist across every dance floor. This project is an invitation to hear Gqom differently – to embrace its ability to hold many voices, many influences and many futures.”
Across its five meticulously crafted tracks, the EP journeys through Gqom, Is’qinsi, Afro Tech, 3-Step and experimental club music, seamlessly fusing genres into a body of work that defies labels. Every beat feels intentional, every collaboration purposeful, and every song contributes to a larger narrative centred on transformation, reinvention and creative freedom.
The project opens with the infectious Ba Ko Kae, featuring Espacio Dios, before moving into the atmospheric Hypnosis alongside DJ Emotive and KIING BHUTIE. Mind Your Business sees spoken-word heavyweight Lazarusman join KIING BHUTIE for a captivating performance, while Ngiw’logogo brings together Unkle Ken, Rifle Deep, Thobeka and Sunornza in a powerful fusion of rhythm and emotion. The EP closes with Ten Toes, featuring Omagoqa and Joshua Futura, ending the project on an electrifying high that leaves listeners wanting more.
Beyond the music, Rebirth Is Necessary is a complete artistic experience. Inspired by the late multidisciplinary artist Lunga Ntila, the project’s visual identity embraces fragmented imagery, collage and distortion to symbolise constant evolution. Just as the artwork refuses to conform to a single narrative, the music celebrates identities, cultures and sounds that cannot be confined by convention.
Over the years, Lelowhatsgood has established himself as far more than a DJ or producer. Equally respected across music, fashion, nightlife and contemporary African culture, he has become one of the country’s most influential creative voices, consistently challenging audiences to rethink what African electronic music can become.
With Rebirth Is Necessary, he raises the bar once again.
More than an EP, it is a cultural manifesto. It declares that Gqom is not a static genre locked in the past, but a living, breathing movement capable of embracing new languages, new ideas and new generations of artists. It is proof that reinvention is not only possible – it is essential.
As South Africa’s dance music continues to evolve on the global stage, Rebirth Is Necessary arrives as one of the year’s most daring and important releases, positioning Lelowhatsgood at the forefront of a new creative revolution. Rebirth Is Necessary is now available on all major streaming platforms. – @NewsSA_Online
Follow us on our social media platforms below: