Bongeziwe Mabandla faced addiction, illness and ‘backstabbers’. How has the South African singer stayed so upbeat?

Bongeziwe Mabandla released the music video for his single "Yalwa" this week, a track that celebrates heritage and the women in his lineage. The video prominently features his mother and aunt, dressed in traditional isiXhosa umbhaco garments and contemporary designer wear, set against the backdrop of South Africa's Eastern Cape. Mabandla, an indie artist with growing international recognition, has been living in Paris for the past six months, a move he describes as "life-changing" as he seeks to explore new opportunities while maintaining his South African identity. This period of international living follows years of acclaim in France, including an early nomination for the Radio France Internationale award. Mabandla's new album is noted for its existential insights, emerging after a challenging period in his life that included struggles with addiction, illness, and interpersonal conflicts he referred to as "backstabbers." Despite these adversities, the South African singer-songwriter has maintained an upbeat outlook, which is reflected in his latest musical offerings.