"Khona" | ||||||||
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Single by Mafikizolo featuring Uhuru and Mapiano | ||||||||
from the album Reunited | ||||||||
Released | January 10, 2013 | |||||||
Format | CD, Digital download | |||||||
Recorded | 2012 | |||||||
Genre | Afropop, house music, kwaito | |||||||
Length | 04:55 | |||||||
Label | Kalawa Jazmee Records | |||||||
Writer(s) |
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Producer(s) | Uhuru | |||||||
Mafikizolo chronology | ||||||||
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"Khona" is a song by South African duo Mafikizolo, released as the first single from their eighth studio album Reunited (2013). It features additional vocals from Xelimpilo, a member of Uhuru. The song was released by Kalawa Jazmee Records. In South Africa, the song peaked at number 1 on YFM, Umhlobo Wenene FM, Ukhozi FM and True FM. It peaked at number 2 on Metro FM music charts. In Nigeria, the song received numerous radio airplay on the Beat 99.9 FM and Cool FM. On Prisoner of Class music chart, the song made the list of the top 10 African songs of 2013, peaking at number 1. Furthermore, the song peaked at number 1 on Afribiz's Top 100 chart.
Upon its release, the song was met with great reception throughout Africa. Many people fell in love with its syncopated rhythmic drumbeat sound. The song has elevated the South African house genre to some extent, and was released with the idea that music can influence a large demography of people across the African continent. In addition to being one of the most played radio songs in Africa, "Khona" caught the attention of MTN's Project Fame West Africa season 6 contestants. Contestants of the television program, on several occasions, sang the song humorously while playing a singing game amongst themselves.
"Khona" was written and composed in Zulu by Theo Kgosinkwe, Nhlanhla Nciza and Uhuru. It translates to "there" or "at that place". The release of "Khona" marked the official reunion of the singing duo who took significant time off to work on their solo careers. Prior to releasing "Khona", Mafikizolo were precisely known for putting out wedding inspired themes. In a nutshell, "Khona" blends West African sounds with African house instrumentals. The duo opted for a fresh sound to complement their return to the South African Music Industry. Commenting on their newly discovered sound, Nhlanhla said: "We had Afro-pop songs, but we also wanted a fresh sound. Oskido wasn’t sure about the direction and neither were we. One of the things we are worried about is that the new sound is young." In addition to bringing about a new sound, the duo also revamped their physical image. Nhlanhla commented on Mafikizolo's new image, saying: "With Reunited we are inspired by the white 1950s and 1960s culture of roller skates and drive-ins and diners."