Zahara - Imali Apr 2026
The late South African Afro-soul icon Bulelwa Mkutukana , known as , released the soulful track "Imali" (meaning "Money") on her multi-platinum 2013 album Phendula . The song reflects on the corruptive and divisive power of money in society. The Lyrical Journey of "Imali" The Weight of Wealth
The lyrics highlight how financial greed can break long-standing bonds.
Information on her following her passing in 2023 Zahara - Imali
Like many of her songs, it incorporates a spiritual plea for guidance to avoid falling into the trap of materialism. Zahara’s Real-World Connection
The song became eerily prophetic for Zahara’s own life. In her later years, she was embroiled in public legal and financial battles over and exploitation. The late South African Afro-soul icon Bulelwa Mkutukana
Her personal fight for "imali" owed to her turned her into a symbol for artist rights in South Africa, highlighting how young talent is often used and forgotten. Legacy of the Song
"Imali" remains a staple in Zahara’s discography because of its . It serves as a "helpful essay" in musical form on the dangers of greed, delivered through her signature powerful vocals and acoustic guitar. If you'd like to dive deeper, I can help you with: A line-by-line translation of the Xhosa lyrics Information on her following her passing in 2023
She accused former labels of underpaying her, once stating she received only "a mere R10,000" despite the massive success of her albums.