The sound of survival: Makhadzi’s ‘BIG 30’ blends high-energy beats with deep resilience

Makhadzi is set to release a new EP on Monday, March 30. 

Titled “BIG 30”, the project marks a milestone in the South African singer’s career. The EP channels her recent life experiences into music, focusing on resilience, self-worth and purpose.

The lead single, “Cancela Lenyalo”, has already been released and is available on streaming platforms. Fans have welcomed the track, which previews the personal and reflective tone of the full project.  

Makhadzi is releasing the new project following a traumatic car accident that she survived on December 21, 2025.  

While travelling from Limpopo to Johannesburg for a New Year’s Eve performance, she was reportedly struck by a vehicle after stepping out of her own car.

The incident forced her to take a 10-week break from live performances. During her recovery, she began recording music that directly reflects her healing journey.

One track, “Operations”, featuring Mr Brown and TS Man, includes lyrics such as, “I can see, I can talk, but I was making my operation feel better,” capturing the raw honesty of her experience.

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Makhadzi described the studio as her place of healing during this period.

She made her return to live performances last month at the SANDF Armed Forces Day in Thohoyandou, marking her first stage appearance since the accident.

Sharing her excitement on social media, she said, “Yesterday was my first day at work. All thanks to @sa_national_defense_force for bringing my people together in a stadium that I have been dreaming of filling up. Thank you to all my fans for supporting me.”