Zolani Mahola embraces a fresh start with new single ‘A Good Time’

South African singer and storyteller Zolani Mahola is stepping into a new chapter with her latest single, A Good Time, a warm, groove-filled release about rediscovering yourself, embracing change and making room for what comes next.

The song is the third single from her upcoming album, People Power, expected in 2027. It offers a more sensual and playful side of Mahola, showing an artist who is increasingly comfortable exploring life and music on her own terms.

Finding freedom in a new chapter

At the heart of A Good Time is the line, “You picked a good time to meet me.” What sounds like a flirtatious invitation carries a deeper meaning for Mahola, whose recent experiences have prompted reflection and personal growth.

The song took shape around a chorus that had been playing in her mind before she brought it into the studio with London-based, Grammy-nominated producer Hannah V.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind the track, Mahola speaks openly about the lessons she learnt following the end of her long-term relationship and marriage.

Rather than dwelling on heartbreak, she wanted to explore what happens after the difficult work of looking inward – when a person begins to see new possibilities and approaches life with a different perspective.

That shift gives the single its easy-going energy. It is about being open to love, feeling comfortable in your own skin and recognising that personal growth can create space for joy.

From Freshlyground to finding her own sound

For many South Africans, Mahola will always be associated with Freshlyground, the celebrated pan-African band she fronted for 17 years.

During that time, she became part of one of the country’s most recognisable musical exports, performing internationally and collaborating with legendary artists, including Stevie Wonder and Hugh Masekela. She also performed alongside Shakira on the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).

Stepping away from the band marked a significant change in her artistic identity. Now, Mahola is exploring what it means to build a musical legacy independently, without being confined to the sound audiences have come to expect from her.

Her recent releases reflect that freedom.

The first two singles from People Power, XhosaNostra and AmaXhosa, introduced listeners to a bold celebration of Xhosa identity, with XhosaNostra drawing on Gqom influences.

A Good Time takes a different direction, proving that Mahola is not interested in staying within one musical lane.

For an artist whose career has included collaborations across a wide range of genres, this next phase offers an opportunity to experiment without limits.

A taste of what to expect from ‘People Power’

Beyond its personal themes, A Good Time offers another glimpse into the ideas shaping People Power.

The forthcoming album will explore identity, cultural heritage, personal agency and the strength of individual and collective voices. It also reflects the diversity of musical styles and cultures that influence South Africa and the wider world.

Mahola’s work has long extended beyond music into theatre, film, storytelling, nature and activism. Across these spaces, the stories people tell and the voices they choose to amplify remain central to her creative approach.

With A Good Time, she brings those ideas into a more intimate setting, pairing personal reflection with a groove-led sound that invites listeners to enjoy the moment.

Rather than attempting to recreate the success of her Freshlyground years, Mahola is building something that reflects who she is today.

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