Freshly Ground

Freshlyground Make a Triumphant Return to the Spotlight

South African afro-fusion giants Freshlyground are back, and their return is already stirring excitement across the music world. Formed in Cape Town in 2002, the band rose from a vibrant local scene to become global ambassadors of African sound, best known for co-creating Shakira’s 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”, one of the most-watched music videos in history.

After a five-year hiatus, Freshlyground announced their comeback in late 2024, introducing a new lead vocalist, Mbali Makhoba, and signalling a fresh chapter for the iconic group.

Their journey has been marked by genre-blending brilliance. From the breakout success of Nomvula and the award-winning Ma’ Cheri, to the politically charged Radio Africa, Freshlyground built a legacy that mixes afro-fusion, kwaito, kwela, jazz and folk in multiple languages, reflecting a proudly African, globally relevant identity.

With multiple South African Music Awards, an MTV Europe Music Award and a place in World Cup history, Freshlyground remain one of the country’s most influential bands.

Now, with new energy and a renewed vision, their comeback promises to reconnect a new generation with the sound that once took South Africa to the world.