“My new album Umi is positioning me not only as an independent artist but also as a businesswoman…”
Zamajobe Sithole, affectionately known as Zamajobe, is a household name in the South African entertainment industry. Through relentless dedication, she has risen to a point where formal introductions are no longer necessary.
Her humble beginnings trace back to the cool, dusty streets of Vosloorus on the East Rand. Born in Vereeniging at her grandmother’s home, her parents, Nombuso and Themba Sithole, relocated to Johannesburg in pursuit of work. The family of four – including Zama’s older brother, Ayanda Sithole, first settled in Soweto before establishing a permanent residence in Vosloorus.
Zamajobe’s mother, rooted in a devout religious background, nurtured her children within the church, where Zama fell deeply in love with the soulful, uplifting sounds of gospel music. Her father, an academic and avid jazz collector, broadened her musical palette, sowing the seeds for the eclectic blend that would later define her songwriting and compositional style.
In an exclusive interview with SA POSITIVE NEWS Zamajobe recounted the moment the “music bug” bit her, despite the influences from both parents. “It was definitely after I took part in the Idols competition which I didn’t actually enter,” she said. A school friend had clipped an Idols entry form, attaching a heartfelt note suggesting Zamajobe try the show after they both auditioned for Miss Teen South Africa. Though Zamajobe was eliminated in the first round of Miss Teen, her friend made it to the next stage before also being voted out. “On Monday at school she had the envelope because she felt music suited me, since I always sang at school. When I got home, I handed it to my mother with a scoff, ‘Can you believe this girl? The nerve!’ My mother glanced at it, said nothing, and the next thing I knew I was receiving calls from producers. After a 15‑minute conversation convincing me to audition, I found myself in the Top 10, then voted out in seventh place. Immediately I was offered recording contracts, and soon I was in the studio recording my debut album Ndawo Yami, which went on to sell double‑platinum.”
Her first major introduction to the South African public came when she was placed seventh in the second season of Idols South Africa. Though she did not win, the exposure generated a wave of offers from major labels. Consequently, Amajuba signed with Sony under the mentorship of judge Dave Thompson, who acted as her guide throughout the competition.
Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Zamajobe added, “Yes, it was my break in terms of exposure and opportunities. I believe my album is what solidified who I am and allowed the world to truly know and understand me. The whole experience taught me so much; the relentless grind I still apply today. Every day on Idols was a grind nonstop work, learning two new songs per week and making them our own – an incredibly challenging yet creatively rewarding process.”
Eight months after securing her first recording deal, Zamajobe released the critically acclaimed debut album Ndawo Yami, which this year celebrates its 21st anniversary with nationwide celebrations. The double‑platinum record earned multiple accolades at the SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC AWARDS (SAMA) and other prominent national and international ceremonies, including nominations at the MTV Europe Awards.
Her sophomore and third releases, Ndoni Yamanzi and Thula Mtwana, each achieved notable success. Over a 21‑year touring and gigging career, Zamajobe has collaborated with some of the world’s finest musicians, both locally and abroad. Her timeless, soulful, African‑funk sound has cemented her as a formidable force within South Africa’s music landscape.
To commemorate 21 years of “slayage” in the industry, Zamajobe revealed ambitious plans: “I hosted an intimate setup last year at Gold Reef City to launch my new album Umi. It was both an album launch and a 20‑year celebration of Ndawo Yami, a truly beautiful, touching, and moving night. The audience truly knew and loved the music, making it an unforgettable evening.”
Despite a ten‑year hiatus, Zamajobe’s highly anticipated fourth studio album Umi is slated for release in November. Feeling as though she is beginning anew, she looks forward to another long, successful chapter, commencing with this long‑awaited record. These are exhilarating times for the singer, and she is genuinely excited for the journey ahead.
Speaking of exciting milestones, the songstress has been nominated for a South African Music Award (SAMA) in the Best African Adult Contemporary Album category. An elated Zamajobe told SA POSITIVE NEWS what this nomination means to her: “It feels incredible, and I hope to grow from strength to strength in this manner.” She continued, “My new album Umi is positioning me not only as an independent artist but also as a businesswoman, which I am truly enjoying. Umi is the first album I have released without a label, opening my eyes to countless possibilities and the growth I desire. The #SAMA31 nomination is a beautiful affirmation of my artistic direction, and I am super honoured and excited about the ventures I will explore.”
In November 2025, the SAMA stage – long celebrated as the pinnacle of South Africa’s music calendar returns in an evolved hybrid format, seamlessly blending the magic of a live, in‑person ceremony with the reach and dynamism of a virtual broadcast. This format expands the SAMA experience, offering fans across the globe front‑row access while preserving the intimacy and grandeur of the physical event. It will be a night where artistry, rhythm, and reinvention converge in a bold reimagining of what an awards celebration can be.
Follow Zamajobe on all her social media platforms to keep up with her illustrious career:
– Instagram: @Zamajobe
– Facebook: @Zamajobe
– X: @Zamajobeafro
– TikTok: @ZamajobeSithole
By Sinenzolo Mondi
