A powerful new chapter begins for South African singer, dancer, and choreographer Babes Wodumo, as she prepares to release her long-awaited EP titled MABESHINGO on 17 October. Known for her fearless creativity and for putting Gqom on the global map with her debut album Gqom Queen, Vol. 1 (2016), Babes is ready to reclaim her throne.
The EP, a deeply personal project, marks her official return to the music scene and pays tribute to her late husband, Mampintsha, while also showing her evolution as an artist. OKMzansi recently had an exclusive chat with Babes Wodumo about her new music, creative process, and the future of Gqom.
1. MABESHINGO marks your return after a hiatus — what does this project represent to you personally and creatively?
Mabheshingo is a name Mampintsha would call me, and when I asked why, he said Beyoncé is Sasha Fierce on stage. So, when I’m in my zone, I’m not Babes but Mabheshingo because I give my all.
2. You’re releasing three singles ahead of the EP — what made you choose “Sip n See,” “Ekhoneni,” and “Ngakuthanda Kahulu” as the lead tracks?
It has three genres — Gqom, Maskandi, and Electro. I wanted people to have a taste of Babes being out of her comfort zone.
3. “Ngakuthanda Kahulu” is a Maskandi track, which is quite different from your Gqom sound. What inspired you to experiment with Maskandi?
Love the question because it means my mission is accomplished — that’s the reaction I wanted. I’m a musician; there are no boundaries when it comes to the food of the soul.
4. How did the collaborations with Madanon, Jay Music, Don Edward, Frost, Sk, Sundile, and Lelowhatsgood come about?
Studio needs everyone to be in their exploring zone. Everyone came with what made sense — and it worked.
5. You’ve described the EP as being dedicated to Mampintsha, South Africa, and the world — how did his influence and memory shape the music?
That man groomed me and made me understand what music is. His advice shaped me and reminded me to stay focused.
6. Can you tell us more about the song camp in August and how it contributed to the sound and feel of MABESHINGO?
I wanted not only me but my whole team to come out of their comfort zone. Yes, I have my own studio at West Ink, but I needed to make sure we were all giving our all.
7. Working with newer players in the Gqom and EDM space, what fresh energy or ideas did they bring into the studio?
They reminded me that we legends never realise what a huge impact we made in the industry. Seeing them being so hungry for a win, I had to listen and not just hear — because there’s a difference. I gave them space to feel the beat and express themselves, and that gave me direction on where the track was going.
8. What role did your fans and their support play in motivating you to make this comeback?
I’ve shown my fans every phase of my life, but they never left me. They gave me hope and reminded me it ain’t over — they played a huge impact in my coming back.
9. How do you see this project helping you heal while also uplifting others who have experienced personal loss?
I think always reminding yourself that everything has its time and picking yourself up is important. Some heal by baking, cooking, or working — my healing was studio sessions and prayer. This project is evidence that it’s okay to take your time healing because the results are perfect.
10. Looking back at your career from “Wololo” to now, what has changed the most about you as an artist?
Understanding the behind-the-scenes of music is what the new grown Babes can’t tell the young Babes.
11. You’ve been called the “Queen of Gqom.” How do you feel about reclaiming that title in 2025 with this project?
It feels so good! It’s good to know my throne hasn’t been taken — it proves I am indeed a queen.
12. What do you hope this EP will contribute to the future of Gqom as a genre, both in South Africa and globally?
I’m hoping people now understand Gqom is a culture, not only a genre. I’m wishing that even at the BET Awards, Gqom culture is noticed as a category.
13. Beyond MABESHINGO, what can fans look forward to next from Babes Wodumo?
A grown Babes — and one who’s hungrier for a win like never before.
