The celebrated guitarist and Maskandi musician marks his first release through the Africori imprint, joining forces with MaWhoo, Mjolisi, Gatsheni and more on an expansive 18-track offering.
Johannesburg, South Africa | 13 November 2026 – Renowned South African Maskandi musician, guitarist and songwriter Jaiva Zimnike releases his tenth solo album, Iksasa Alaziwa, through Durban Media House and Africori. Marking his first release through the Africori imprint, the 18-track project celebrates a career built on musical craftsmanship, cultural preservation and an enduring commitment to the evolution of Maskandi.
Translated as “The Future Is Unknown,” Iksasa Alaziwa finds Jaiva reflecting on life’s uncertainties, love, relationships and the lessons that shape our journeys. Drawing on the rich storytelling traditions of Maskandi, the album moves between deeply personal narratives, traditional guitar-driven compositions and contemporary influences, demonstrating the versatility of an artist who has spent years mastering his craft while embracing new musical possibilities.
Leading the project is “Ngifuna Wena” featuring MaWhoo and Mjolisi, a heartfelt collaboration that explores the complexities of love, reconciliation and choosing to rebuild a meaningful relationship. Bringing together Jaiva’s distinctive Maskandi guitar work, Mjolisi’s expressive vocal delivery and MaWhoo’s soulful presence, the song captures the vulnerability of acknowledging past mistakes and finding the courage to love again. Its romantic message of commitment and renewed passion is carried by a rich blend of traditional instrumentation and contemporary musical sensibilities.
Beyond its lead single, Iksasa Alaziwa features an impressive collection of collaborators representing different voices within South Africa’s Maskandi landscape. Mjolisi also appears on “Umlabalaba Wothando,” while Njabulo Langa joins Jaiva on “Nganginganqabile” and Gatsheni contributes to “Dlala Ngibone.” Additional appearances from Falabo, Sminofu, Mnyovu, Somtwana, Shilisi and Kwazi Nsele bring further depth to the album, creating a musical conversation between established traditions and the genre’s evolving generation of performers.
Affectionately known as Uthisha Wentambo, meaning “The Teacher of the Guitar,” Jaiva has established himself as a respected multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, songwriter and producer. His musical journey began under the mentorship of Maskandi figure Umqgumeni iBhova, with whom he worked as a dancer before developing his own identity as a guitarist and performer. Over the years, his contributions have extended beyond his solo career, including production work for fellow Maskandi musicians and collaborations with artists such as Mthandeni SK, Menzi, Izingane Zoma, Khuzani, Mjolisi and Gatsheni.
Jaiva’s extensive discography reflects his longstanding contribution to the genre, with previous albums including Isikole Sengoma (2017), Hamba Fish (2020), Bangihlinza Ngiphila (2023) and Sibambane Ngezandla (2025). His 2025 album featured the likes of Mthandeni SK and Ntante Mmala, further demonstrating his collaborative approach to music-making.
His influence also extends through his Maskandi group, Ama AK47, an established part of his musical identity. In addition to his traditional Maskandi catalogue, Jaiva has recently participated in Durban Media House’s Digital Maskandi Vol. 1 project, appearing on “Pain” alongside Jesse Clegg and “Joburg” alongside Shwi Mantombazane. Both tracks formed part of the 2026 project, which brought Maskandi into conversation with other South African musical styles.
Jaiva’s involvement in Digital Maskandi Vol. 1 and his latest collaboration with MaWhoo reflect an artist who recognises the importance of introducing traditional sounds to new musical spaces without compromising their authenticity. Throughout Iksasa Alaziwa, his signature guitar arrangements, expressive vocals and culturally grounded storytelling remain central to the music, while his collaborations offer fresh interpretations of the genre’s familiar sounds.
The album also highlights Jaiva’s hands-on involvement in the recording process. Credited with lead guitar, lead and backing vocals, composition and production, he worked alongside producer Mthethwa Njoko, with contributions from bassist Celumusa Zuma, concertina players Thuthani Ndlovu and Mashansi Mjiyakho, and keyboardist Jay Jay Mbuthuma. The project was recorded across Emandleni Studio and Takk Studio.
With Iksasa Alaziwa, Jaiva Zimnike enters another chapter of his career, bringing together the experience of a seasoned musician and the creative curiosity of an artist determined to keep Maskandi moving forward. His first release through Africori represents a new milestone in a journey defined by dedication to his craft, the preservation of musical heritage and the belief that traditional African music has an important place in the future of contemporary music.
Iksasa Alaziwa is out now. Stream here.
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