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MBABANE – Award-winning musician Young Zesh has welcomed the widespread recognition of his emotional song ‘Ubaba’, describing it as a deeply personal story that listeners can connect with.
The song, whose title means ‘Father’, explores grief, family memories and the pain of losing a parent. Released on 2 October through Mabonwa Abulawe Records, Ubaba is available across all major digital streaming platforms.
Endorsements from music commentator Nota have brought further attention to the collaboration, which connects the artists through a shared narrative. Young Zesh, born Mzwandile Comfort Ginindza, said the song was inspired by losing his father before he could fulfill everything he had hoped to do for him. “Ubaba is a very personal and emotional song for me and Aubrey Qwana,” he said.
The track also reflects on the bitter-sweet experience of being told that one resembles a parent who is no longer alive to witness the person their child has become. Young Zesh explained that the song considers the loneliness families experience after losing a father, including mothers left without their partners. He noted that the message extends beyond his own journey to anyone who has lost a parent or an influential father figure.
Furthermore, the track encourages listeners whose parents are still alive to value and appreciate them while they can. “We were not simply trying to make a song together; we were trying to tell a story that people could connect with,” he said.
The collaboration was recorded at Show Them Flames in Sandton, South Africa, and produced by Nkululeko Sithole and Stanley Khoza. Sean Cast HQ handled mixing and mastering. Musically, the track blends Afro-pop with modern African influences and soulful elements.
Young Zesh has built his reputation through music that seamlessly combines Afro-pop, hip-hop and Siswati influences. His breakthrough came around 2021 with Kakhoza, followed by popular tracks such as Ungangikhaleli, Boludvonga and Senibeketele. He also received six nominations at the 2024 National Arts Awards.
Qwana is similarly known for blending Afro-pop, Maskandi, Mbaqanga, amaZion, hip-hop and R&B. His breakthrough hit Molo helped establish his position in the South African music scene.
For Young Zesh, this collaboration represents an important new chapter in his musical journey. Ultimately, the song seeks to help listeners remember loved ones while appreciating the enduring bonds they share with their families.