Mr Thela – INTSIKA (KING OF GQOM) Album

South African Gqom heavyweight Mr Thela returns with INTSIKA (KING OF GQOM), a 20-track album featuring Boohle, Eemoh, Vanger Boyz, Pcee, Campmasters and several other collaborators.

Mr Thela has spent years building his name in the Gqom scene, and this album feels connected to that journey. The title, Intsika, means “pillar” in isiZulu. It represents strength and support, something the producer says reflects his experiences and position within the music culture.

One of the songs that introduced the project was “uBumnandi,” featuring Eemoh and Vanger Boyz. The record brings a celebratory feel to the album, with heavy percussion and the kind of rhythm that belongs on a dancefloor. Eemoh also returns on “Sisuka’Kude,” making him one of the recurring voices on the project.

Boohle joins Mr Thela on “uMhleli Wami,” while Pcee and Campmasters appear together on “Impilo Emnandi.” Another collaboration worth checking out is “Anthem,” featuring Shella Weh Mngani and Mel Bacela.

The album also brings together several artists on “Khanya.” Borah RSA, Rhass, Lethu and Maleta all contribute to the recording. Meanwhile, Lakhe Cruel Boyz appear on “Cruel Combo,” and Asambeni joins the producer on “Departure.”

There is plenty of room for Mr Thela’s own production too. “Midnight Dream,” “Reintroduction,” “Above The Clouds,” “Top Deck” and “Funky Nights” give listeners a chance to hear his sound without a long guest list.

Released through Tronics Land and Universal Music, INTSIKA (KING OF GQOM) contains 20 songs and runs for approximately two hours and 12 minutes. The project also brings together contributors from different corners of South African dance music.

Mr Thela – INTSIKA (KING OF GQOM) Album Full tracklist:

1. Midnight Dream
2. Anthem (feat. Shella Weh Mngani & Mel Bacela)
3. uMhleli Wami (feat. Boohle)
4. Reintroduction
5. Ndize Kanye Nkosi (feat. Analoe)
6. Above The Clouds
7. uBumnandi (feat. Eemoh & Vanger Boyz)
8. Cruel Combo (feat. Lakhe Cruel Boyz)
9. Top Deck
10. Impilo Emnandi (feat. Pcee & Campmasters)
11. Sisuka’Kude (feat. Eemoh)
12. Bawelile (feat. Mel Bacela)
13. Khanya (feat. Borah RSA, Rhass, Lethu & Maleta)
14. Funky Nights
15. Project 99
16. uMtshato Lento (feat. Toolz Umazelaphi & Nkazie)
17. Dubane O’clock
18. Soz’ubuye (feat. Sviej)
19. Departure (feat. Asambeni)
20. Old Days (feat. UBizza Wethu)

Give INTSIKA (KING OF GQOM) a listen and tell us which collaboration deserves the most attention.