FROM HEARTBREAK TO HEALING: CriptoSA breaks the silence with new single Kubuhlungu
By Sitha Maliwa:
In a country where conversations around mental health often remain hushed, especially among young Black men, emerging artist CriptoSA is using music to say what many are afraid to voice.
Refiloe Setlaba, known by his stage name CriptoSA, has just released Kubuhlungu, a hauntingly beautiful debut single that dives deep into themes of loss, depression, and emotional resilience. The title, which means “It Hurts” in isiZulu, reflects not only the pain he’s endured, but also the silent suffering of many South Africans who face mental health challenges in isolation.
Born in Soweto and raised in Welkom, Setlaba’s journey is one marked by profound personal tragedy. After losing both of his parents at a young age and enduring long-term unemployment, the...