A fresh and powerful voice has entered the maskandi scene, as Bulawayo-based artiste Igagu Lakwantuthu makes a debut with his single Amabhinca, a track already turning heads and winning over listeners.
Born Cleopas Gumpo, the rising artiste is stepping into the spotlight with confidence, using Amabhinca to announce his arrival in a genre that continues to grow in popularity.
The song, rich in traditional maskandi rhythms and modern flair, showcases not only his vocal ability but also his storytelling depth.
“This is more than just a song — it is a statement. I wanted people to feel where I'm coming from and understand the journey behind my music,” he said.
Amabhinca carries a strong cultural identity while still appealing to a new generation of listeners — a balance that has helped the track to gain early traction among fans.
The release marks a turning point in his musical journey after he shifted focus fully to maskandi.
In 2025, he recorded a demo track titled Uthando, which immediately caught the attention of listeners.
"I realised maskandi music was growing and gaining so many fans, so I decided to record Uthando, and the response from people was amazing, it gave me back my confidence and reminded me why I love making music," he explains.
The positive feedback encouraged him to fully embrace the genre and continue building his career
Now, with Amabhinca, he is building on that momentum.
"This is just the beginning, I’m planning two other singles this year and I believe they are going to resonate with the people," he added.
In addition to his solo work, Igagu Lakwantuthu is working on collaborative projects under his group Amaqhathanzipho, alongside fellow artiste Jiyane, as he continues to expand his musical footprint.
With Amabhinca, the Bulawayo newcomer is not just introducing himself — he is setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting run in the maskandi industry.