Ndu Browns New Music outside of Blaq Diamond. Image: Genius.
(The Post News)- Ndumiso Mdletshe, known professionally as Ndu Browns, is stepping confidently into a new phase of his music journey as he prepares to release his debut solo single, “Ubuhle Bakho,” on Friday, September 12, a date that also marks his 31st birthday.
Having grown up in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Browns has become a familiar name in South Africa’s music scene. As one-half of the award-winning Afro-pop duo Blaq Diamond, he helped shape a signature sound that blends traditional African music with modern Afro-pop influences. With chart-topping singles and multi-platinum albums, including the widely acclaimed 2020 release “Umuthi,” Blaq Diamond earned both national recognition and a loyal fan base across the continent.
Ndu Browns Launches Solo Career with Debut Single ‘Ubuhle Bakho‘
Now, Ndu Browns is stepping into the spotlight alone, though not apart from his roots. Earlier this year, he announced the start of his solo career, describing it as a natural evolution of his artistry, not a departure from the Blaq Diamond legacy.
“September 12 is more than just my birthday,” he told Independent Media Lifestyle. “It’s the beginning of a new chapter. I’m growing as a person, and with that growth comes the courage to explore my sound in a deeper way. This is the right time to take that leap.”
As Ndu Browns embarks on this solo journey, Ndu Browns remains committed to the fusion of styles that has defined his musical identity. His first single, “Ubuhle Bakho,” brings together elements of R&B, UK drill, and isicathamiya, a traditional choral style from his hometown. He described the song as a deeply personal blend of influences that reflects both his upbringing and his evolving creative vision.
“I found a beat with a UK R&B vibe and some drill flavor,” he said. “I linked up with the producer, Mulak, and we shared the same vision. But I knew it needed more of me. So I called in my friends, the Bergville Green Lovers, to bring in that isicathamiya sound I grew up around.” The result, he explained, is a unique sonic blend that feels both fresh and rooted. “This isn’t just a track; it’s a new sound. It came together so beautifully. It’s one-of-one.” Browns also emphasized his growing involvement in music production, noting that many fans may not realize how much creative control he takes behind the scenes.
“I’ve always been hands-on with production, but now I’m stepping fully into that role,” Ndu Browns said. “I’m experimenting with genre fusion, exploring new textures, and giving listeners sounds they haven’t heard before. I want people to see that this is about the craft from start to finish.”
As part of this effort, he plans to release behind-the-scenes content that showcases his full creative process, from songwriting to studio sessions. “This solo phase is about transparency and showing my fans what it takes to build a song from scratch,” he added.
While many artists see a solo venture as a break from past partnerships, Browns insisted that Blaq Diamond remain intact. “Building Blaq Diamond was a privilege,” he said. “We managed to grow our individual brands alongside the duo, which is why this next step feels so natural. I have fans who connect directly with my voice and my energy. They’ve inspired me to keep pushing.”
Alongside Danya Devs, Ndu Browns helped transform the landscape of South African Afro-pop with a sound that combined vivid storytelling and contemporary beats. Now, he wants to expand that influence even further. “I believe we’ve been leaders in shaping Afro-pop in South Africa,” he said. “We’ve always pushed boundaries, and I want to keep doing that, collaborating across genres and cultures, and taking this music beyond Africa.”
ForNdu Browns, this solo journey represents not only a creative expansion but also a chance to share his personal story more openly than ever before. “I’m finally showing people my life, who I am, where I come from, and what I’ve been through,” he said. “This music will reveal my highs, my lows, and my relationships—those that worked and those that didn’t. I’m inviting fans into my world.”
With “Ubuhle Bakho” marking the start of his solo catalogue, Browns doesn’t view this moment as a breakaway but rather as an evolution of the creative universe he helped build with Blaq Diamond. “It’s an exciting time,” he said. “And I can’t wait for people to experience it with me.”
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