Mdantsane-born singer and songwriter Ande Sesmane has released her fourth studio project, Energy, an album she describes as a reflection of her healing journey, spiritual growth, and musical authenticity.
The project features standout tracks such as Siyawela and Ohh Nana.
Both songs have already earned international recognition, with airplay in the UK and upcoming exposure on radio stations in the United States.
Sesmane’s path to music began in childhood.
At the age of six she discovered dance, and by twelve she realised she had a singing voice worth nurturing.
“I’d record myself on cassettes and listen. I liked what I heard and never looked back.”
That early discovery set her on a creative path where music and movement became inseparable.
Over the years, the 38-year-old’s influences have come from a wide range of sounds and artists.
She draws inspiration from legends like Brenda Fassie, Miriam Makeba, Letta Mbuli and Whitney Houston, alongside international stars including Phil Collins, Linkin Park, and Jamiroquai.
Her listening palette stretches across genres such as soul, Afrobeat, jazz, reggae, amapiano, pop, and funk. This diversity has shaped her ability to move fluidly between styles while still holding onto a distinctive voice rooted in African identity.
For Sesmane, authenticity is central to her evolution. “I sound more like myself now instead of trying to sound like how I think people want to hear.
My evolution in music is that of authenticity,” she said.
Her songwriting has become more honest, drawing directly from her lived experiences, while her sound now embraces her mother tongue, her heritage, and elements of African spirituality.
Much of Energy was recorded during a personal healing process, which she says made the project both challenging and rewarding.
It’s the decisions I’ve made, where I stand energetically, and a sneak peek into the energy I’m in
Working alongside her longtime collaborator South Phalo, with whom she co-founded the independent label Planet Nguni, Sesmane balanced the creative process with the demands of running a label.
Collaborations with Sobz, Nolitha, and respected producer King Wave gave the album its layered, collaborative spirit. “Energy is a collection of different states that I’ve been shifting in and out of.
“It’s the decisions I’ve made, where I stand energetically, and a sneak peek into the energy I’m in,” said Sesmane.
For Sesmane, creating music is deeply therapeutic.
“It’s the gift that keeps on giving,” she said, adding that she hopes her work inspires listeners to embrace self-love, healing, and confidence.
Though awards and international airplay affirm her growth, she believes her greatest victories lie in the personal work behind the music.
“I hope Energy leaves people mentally stimulated, soothed, and emotionally uplifted.”
Daily Dispatch
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