South African DJ Dlala ThukzinSouth African DJ Dlala Thukzin. Picture: Supplied

Dlala Thukzin has announced the release of his highly anticipated new 9th solo album, Ember, set for release on 30 October 2026.

For an artist whose music has consistently moved between dancefloors, festivals and global stages, Ember arrives as a statement of longevity, evolution and creative fire. The title captures something fundamental about Dlala Thukzin: the fire that never fades.

Ember brings together African talent

Over the years, Dlala Thukzin (29) has established himself as one of the most distinctive forces in South African dance music, building a catalogue of defining hits while continually pushing the boundaries of Afro-house, 3-Step and the broader African electronic sound. His ability to create records that feel equally at home in intimate settings and on some of the world’s biggest stages has made him one of the country’s most exciting musical exports.

Now, with Ember, that fire burns brighter.

The album brings together an exceptional line-up of collaborators, continuing Dlala Thukzin’s reputation for remarkable musical partnerships and unexpected combinations. Features include Stunna, Sino Msolo, Funky Qla, Kabza Da Small among others. Known for his ability to create chemistry across genres and sounds, his exceptional production skills have become an important part of his musical identity, bringing together some of Africa’s most compelling voices and artists while creating music that resonates far beyond the continent.

Taking Ember to the world

Ember is not just a collection of songs; it is a reflection of an artist in motion.

It arrives at a significant moment in Dlala Thukzin’s international journey. With his music already taking him beyond South Africa, the artist is set to bring the Ember era to audiences around the world, with confirmed tour dates in Australia, the Netherlands and Portugal, among other international destinations to be announced.

The global movement of his music reflects the growing appetite for South African sounds internationally and Dlala Thukzin is at the centre of that movement, carrying a distinctly African sonic identity onto some of the world’s most exciting stages.

From the records that have become staples of dancefloors across the continent to collaborations that have introduced his sound to new audiences, Dlala Thukzin has built his career around movement. Ember continues that journey.

More details, including the full tracklist, collaborators and international tour dates, will be announced in the lead-up to release.

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By Asanda Mbayimbayi

Asanda Mbayimbayi is an award-winning Lifestyle & Entertainment News Editor and Journalist celebrated for her dynamic voice in digital lifestyle, entertainment, and hard news journalism. Honoured with the Galliova People’s Hero 2025 Award for her authentic storytelling and powerful connection with audiences, she continues to redefine journalism with purpose, empathy, and impact. With an instinct for uncovering stories that resonate and a deep understanding of audience engagement, Asanda brings clarity, depth, and heart to every piece she crafts. Beyond the newsroom, she wears many hats — Researcher, Qualified Bible Teacher, Content Creator, Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Book Editor to name a few — using her creative and spiritual insight to inspire transformation through words. Whether leading editorial teams, producing meaningful content, or motivating audiences, Asanda stands as a storyteller driven by faith, purpose, and the power of narrative to connect and inspire.