South African singers South African singers Lwah Ndlunkulu and MaWhoo have released Distance, a new single featuring Feza, ahead of their joint album Isithembu. The track arrived on 19 August 2026 and introduces the Maskandi-influenced direction of the forthcoming project.
Single release and album announcement
In an Instagram post, Lwah Ndlunkulu announced the single and confirmed the album’s release date. She said:
Our joint project ‘Isithembu’ drops 28 August, expect that Maskandi flavour with a fresh twist. And if you haven’t heard ‘Distance’ yet, go stream it now. That’s just the beginning👏🏾😍🔥🎶
Distance explores separation and longing, focusing on emotional connection when physical distance stands between two people. Feza adds another female voice to the record, placing three women at the centre of the release.
Album details and collaborators
Isithembu is scheduled for release on 28 August 2026 under Nkabi Records. The 14-track album includes Maskandi collaborations with the following artists:
- Feza
- Izingani Zoma
- Mthandeni SK
- Siya Ntuli
Background and creative direction
The duo’s name, Zulu Queens, was given to them by fellow South African artist Mthandeni SK. The project grew out of their 2025 collaboration Nembeza, which established a creative partnership that has now developed into a full album built around an equal partnership.
The concept behind Isithembu reimagines the traditional meaning of the word as a symbol of sisterhood, togetherness and an enduring musical bond. Lwah Ndlunkulu’s upbringing in Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal, shaped her relationship with traditional Zulu sounds, while MaWhoo brings a smoother contemporary vocal approach.
Setback and tour plans
During a media launch at Emperors Palace, the duo said the original recordings were accidentally lost, forcing them to recreate all 14 songs from scratch. The project was completed despite the interruption.
A nationwide tour is also in the works, with dates to be announced later this year.
MaWhoo said:
This is more than an album; it is a movement. Lwah and I have always shared a deep love for our heritage and bringing these incredible artists together, especially Feza and the legends, feels like we are building a bridge between the past and the future of Maskandi. Last night was just the beginning.
Lwah Ndlunkulu added:
Standing on that stage with Mawhoo and our sisters, surrounded by so much talent, I felt the power of unity. This project is for the culture, for the queens, and for everyone who believes in the beauty of our music. ‘Distance’ is just a taste of the fire we have coming.
