WeeklySA_AdminCOMEBACK: A viral revival, a new deal and renewed sense of purpose — the South Africa rapper returns to music with honesty, resilience and a mission to reconnect culture with sound…
By WSAM Entertainment Reporter
South African hip-hop artist iFani is back — and this time, it’s more than just a comeback. It’s a reawakening.
After years away from the spotlight, the Eastern Cape-born rapper, real name Mzayifani Boltina, has re-emerged with fresh momentum, a new deal with Asanda Empires, and a viral resurgence of his 2012 hit Shake — now reborn as a remix featuring Sosoboy Fosho, Gaffi, Khitha Pinca and Musa.
What makes this return compelling is not just nostalgia, but timing. More than a decade after its release, Shake has found a new audience on TikTok, bridging generations and reaffirming iFani’s place in South African music.
For an artist known for blending isiXhosa lyricism with accessible, socially conscious storytelling, the moment feels less like a return — and more like unfinished business.
With a new album, 3rd Quadrant, on the horizon, iFani is stepping back into the industry with clarity, purpose and a deeper understanding of himself — shaped by time away from fame, personal challenges and a renewed connection to culture and family.
In this candid Q&A, he reflects on the journey back, the lessons learned, and what lies ahead:
Q: You’ve made a long-awaited return to the music scene — what emotions have defined this comeback?
A: Excitement and relief. I’ve been working my way back since 2023. It’s been ups and downs, but I learned patience and resilience during my time away.
What led you to step away from music in the first place?
Around 2015, there was the beef with the late AKA, combined with mental and physical exhaustion. I needed to step back and reassess.
What challenges were you facing that fans may not have known about?
Things became difficult when I was pushed to release my second album. After that, the pressure and conflict took a toll.
How did your perspective on music and life change during your break?
Everything changed. I found value in simple things — family, raising kids, going to the beach, cultural experiences. I stopped chasing music and focused on purpose.
Your track Shake is trending again — how does that feel?
It’s heartwarming. I performed for kids a lot back then, and now they’ve grown up and still remember. That really touches me.
What do you think makes your music endure?
My sound has always been unique. I never followed trends. I made music for everyone — kids, grandparents. That originality still connects today.
Why revisit Shake with a remix now?
It started trending again after 13 years. That inspired the remix, and I brought in fresh talent from home — we’re all under Asanda Empires.
You’ve always embraced isiXhosa in your music. Why is that important now?
I saw isiXhosa slowly fading among younger generations. I wanted to make it fun and relevant again through music. That mission continues.
What does your new deal with Asanda Empires mean for you?
It came at the right time. I feel like I belong again. It’s given me confidence that 3rd Quadrant will succeed.
Who would you like to collaborate with next?
Scotts Maphuma, Nasty C, Kabza De Small, A-Reece and Zee Nxumalo.
What can fans expect from your new music?
Growth. Honesty. Fans will laugh and cry — it’s real life in my music.
iFani’s return is a reminder that longevity in music isn’t just about staying visible — it’s about staying real.
With a revitalised sound, a cultural mission, and a generation rediscovering his work, he is stepping back into the spotlight not as the artist he once was — but as one who has evolved, endured, and is ready to be heard again.
