PHILA DLOZI’s story is the stuff of dreams. From developing a love for singing at a young age at home in KwaSokhulu, a small village outside Richard’s Bay; to performing in school choirs and a capella groups in Umlazi; and then performing as a street busker while working odd jobs in Durban and later Joburg’s Maboneng district—where he would later be discovered by producers like DJ Maphorisa, develop a social media following including the likes of Black Coffee, and would eventually sign with Sony—it’s a tale filled with highs and heartaches alike. Ekhayakomama captures that story in sound, emotion and spirituality: opening with a prayer to light the way (“Badimo“) the project delves into love, commitment and tradition (“Amalobolo”); maintaining optimism even amidst the greatest challenges (“Sekusele Kancane”); and never forgetting your roots (“Ekhayakomama”).