After almost 20 years behind the scenes, Afro-soul artist Nybosse is stepping into the limelight with his touching new single.
Image: Supplied
After nearly two decades of producing music behind the scenes, Afro-soul musician Nybosse, born Ronald Mthethwa, is stepping back into the spotlight with the release of his heartfelt new single, "NgiHappy Ngawe”, which translates to "I'm happy with you”.
Known for his soulful and jazzy sound that bridges generations, Nybosse is now sharing a love offering meant to tug at the hearts of hopeless romantics everywhere.
Drawing inspiration from the joy and celebration of love, Nybosse intended to create a song for couples to cherish - a piece that can seamlessly accompany any setting, from cosy evenings at home to joyous wedding celebrations.
“I wanted to write a song that helps people believe in love again, in a time when many think it doesn’t exist,” he explains. “It’s a celebration of love, showing how it can transform lives when treated with respect and care.”
From hidden talent to shining star
Nybosse's journey into music began back in 2003, during his high school days when he first discovered his passion through the rhythms of R&B, kwaito, and house music.
“Listening to artists like Hugh Masekela, Mandoza, and Trompies inspired me tremendously. That’s where I learned about jazz, kwaito, R&B, and all the sounds I would later produce,” he recounts.
What sets Nybosse’s style apart from other artists in the Afro-soul genre is his dedication to live music. His sound is characterised by jazzy melodies accompanied by live instruments and less digital manipulation. “My sound is jazzy and spiritual," he expresses.
"The vocals are live, which is increasingly rare these days.”
After almost 20 years behind the scenes, Afro-soul artist Nybosse is stepping into the limelight with his touching new single.
Image: Supplied
A creative process filled with nostalgia
Reflecting on the creation of “NgiHappy Ngawe”, Nybosse shares, “Sunday mornings are slow and family days for many. I spent one of these mornings alone in the studio, playing the piano, when a melody struck me. I began playing around with the lyrics you hear in the song, and that was the spark of inspiration.”
As his debut single, the song marks a significant transition for Nybosse from a respected producer to a solo performer.
Previously, he collaborated with talented artists like Fire Mavela and DJ Cutman, but now he is ready to unveil his artistry to the world.
Born in the small village of KwaMafunze in Pietermaritzburg, Nybosse’s music career took off after his first studio recording in 2007, leading him to perform in community halls as part of GMTex.
The promise of more music
Now based in Soweto, where he worked as a producer at Power FM, Nybosse has honed his skills further with high-profile collaborations under major labels.
His heart, however, has always been set on sharing his musical expressions. With the release of "NgiHappy Ngawe”, he is determined to prove that love, above all, is still very much alive.
“Love is not dead; good people with good intentions are still there,” he asserts, hoping that listeners draw from his music a renewed belief in love. He encourages everyone not to quit on love, “as long as God is still there, love is alive”.
Looking ahead, Nybosse is excited to continue his music journey, with plans to release a ten-track album later this year, along with more music videos. “I’m excited for what the future holds,” he says.
“This project has inspired me to create bigger things, and I hope it resonates with listeners who enjoy heartfelt, honest music.”
∎ "NgiHappy Ngawe" is now available across all streaming platforms.