South African singer and songwriter Aubrey Qwana is proving he’s more than just a musician. The Babaleka hitmaker, who recently collaborated with maskandi star Inkosi Yamagcokama, has revealed that his upcoming album Mkabayi Legacy will also showcase his visual art skills.
Qwana himself created the eye-catching hand-drawn cover for the record, which will be released next month. His late mother, Mkabayi, served as the project’s inspiration and is honored in the artwork.
“Drawing was one of my first talents as a child, but I left it behind to focus on music,” Qwana explained. “Now, with this album, I wanted to revive that gift and create my mother’s portrait the way I want her remembered.”
Babaleka: A Song of Struggles and Survival
The lead single Babaleka reflects Qwana’s personal story of growing up under hardship, with poverty shaping much of his journey. The track mixes Afro-soul, maskandi, and hip hop to deliver a raw and heartfelt message.
‘It’s a testimony not just a song,” Qwana said. “Many young people will relate because they too were born into difficult circumstances and are fighting for a better future.”
According to him, Babaleka is for anyone who has lost hope, offering courage to keep going despite life’s challenges.
More Than Music: A New Artistic Chapter
Qwana revealed that fans can expect more of his drawings to be shared on his social media platforms soon, showing another side of his creativity.
“Art is healing, and I believe my work can inspire strength and resilience,” he added.