J’Something releases new version of ‘Asimbonanga’ ahead of Scatterlings project

The release is the first single from the forthcoming Scatterlings album, a collaborative project led by Johnny Clegg’s son, Jesse Clegg, alongside singer-songwriter Msaki. The project brings together a range of South African artists to reinterpret selected works from Clegg’s repertoire.

‘Asimbonanga’, first released in the 1980s, became closely associated with the anti-apartheid movement and is widely regarded as one of Johnny Clegg’s most influential works. The song was written as a call for the recognition and release of Nelson Mandela during a period when his name was banned in South Africa. Its themes of unity and resistance have continued to resonate across generations.

The Scatterlings album features contributions from artists including Zakes Bantwini, Sun-El Musician, Simmy, Jesse Clegg, Msaki, MUZI, Sminofu, Tresor and Zolani Mahola, among others. The project is intended to reinterpret Clegg’s work for contemporary audiences while maintaining its historical and cultural significance.

Speaking about the release, J’Something said Johnny Clegg’s music had a lasting influence on his understanding of identity and history.

“Growing up in South Africa, Johnny Clegg wasn’t just a musician, he was a voice of truth, unity, and courage. I had the privilege of meeting him a few times and feel absolutely blessed to be releasing this as a single. His music shaped how so many of us understood our identity and our history. To be able to reinterpret ‘Asimbonanga’ is something I don’t take lightly. It’s an honour beyond words to celebrate a man whose work meant so much to me, and to be part of a project that carries his legacy forward for a new generation,” he said.

The wider project will also be linked to the Scatterlings Music Festival, scheduled for 1 August at Huddle Park in Johannesburg, where many of the featured artists are expected to perform. The festival is set to include performances from Zakes Bantwini, Sun-El Musician, J’Something, Simmy, Msaki, Jesse Clegg and others. 

The single will be available on major streaming platforms.