I’m happy to say I came across Freshlyground when I visited South Africa two years ago, well before the “Waka Waka” craze. If you watched the World Cup opening or closing ceremonies, you noticed how the crowd went crazy when Freshlyground’s lead singer, Zolani Mahola, sang her verse in Shakira‘s “Waka Waka”. Well-loved and respected among their peers, the group is at the forefront of South Africa’s most popular acts.
Known for their fresh Afro-fusion pop music and Mahola’s bright voice, the band has come a long way since their founding in 2002. I hope to hear more of Freshlyground in the future.
Here’s “Fire is Low” off of their latest release Radio Africa:
Here’s “I’d Like” by Freshlyground:
These guys are fantastic, and Zolani Mahola is incredible. So cool listening to a someone for whom it comes so naturally!
Agreed! Their name aptly describes their sound.