Nelson Mandela (EP)

Nelson Mandela
EP by Zahara
Released	July 15, 2013 (2013-07-15)
Recorded	2013
Genre	Afro-soul
Label	TS Records
Producer	Robbie Malinga and Mojalefa Thebe
Zahara chronology
The Beginning Live (2012) Nelson Mandela EP (2013) Phendula (2013)

Nelson Mandela is the debut extended play by South African singer Zahara, released on July 15, 2013. It pays tribute to Nelson Mandela and was released at a time when Mandela was critically ill but stable at the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria. The EP's lead single, "Nelson Mandela", peaked at number 1 on South Africa's official music chart. Upon its release, the EP was available for purchase on iTunes.^[1]

EPs lead single

Nelson Mandela was the inspiration behind the EP

The formulation of the EP started when Zahara released a song titled "Nelson Mandela". The song, which features Mzwakhe Mbuli, pays tribute to Nelson Mandela while celebrating his accomplishments. When the song was played on Metro FM, it created a lot of media and social buzz. According to City Press newspaper, the ballad "evokes strong emotions, spurred on by the relentless guitar accompaniment Zahara is known for, and her soaring, strong vocals. In the song, she calls Mandela a man of peace and a pillar of strength." Zahara commented on the song, saying: "I'm very excited and emotional at the same time. I trust that South Africans and the world will receive it (the song) and appreciated it. Above all else, I'm doing this in honour of Tata Mandela."^[2][3]

Her manager, TK Nciza of TS Records, added: "The song speaks to every South African, it’s a true reflection of who Mandela is and his commitment to the country. Even at the Rivonia Trial he said he’ll oppose white domination and black domination, only a few people commit to such. You will be able to relate to the song, whether black or white."^[2][3]

Live performances

Zahara performed the EP's lead single for Mandela at the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria.^[2]

Tracklisting

Charts

References