Big Xhosa has a message for the men — and he is not exactly asking nicely. The genre-bending artist has teamed up with Lwando for “Wapheni Imali”, a playful new single built around one very familiar instruction: men, give women money.
Rather than turning the subject into a serious relationship debate, Big Xhosa does what he does best and turns an everyday situation into something people can laugh about, dance to and, depending on who is listening, perhaps take seriously.
“Wapheni Imali” translates to “give her money”, and there is no hidden meaning behind the title. The song leans fully into the joke, with Big Xhosa delivering his message with the kind of personality that has become part of his appeal.
“Wapheni Imali is me having fun with something that happens in real life. The message is simple – men, give women money. Don’t overthink it,” says Big Xhosa.
Musically, the track refuses to sit in one box. Mbaqanga, Maskandi, Afro-soul and Hip-Hop all find space in the record, creating the kind of genre mix that suits an artist who has never really followed the usual rules.
That unpredictability has been part of Big Xhosa’s journey since his viral breakthrough. Born Sesethu Myeki in the Eastern Cape, he first caught attention with a diss track aimed at prominent South African rappers, which quickly became a viral hit and introduced audiences to his unconventional approach.
Since then, he has worked with names including Big Zulu, Cassper Nyovest, Major League DJz, Robot Boii and Janta, while continuing to build his own identity beyond that first viral moment.
“I have always been someone who is versatile and likes to have fun with music. I can make a song that makes you think, but I can also make a song that makes you laugh and dance. I don’t want to lose that part of myself,” he says.
The release also marks a new chapter for Big Xhosa as he comes under the management of Asanda Empires. The partnership is focused on developing his career while allowing him to keep the personality and creative freedom that made him stand out in the first place.
At its core, “Wapheni Imali” does exactly what the title says — and Big Xhosa clearly intends to have some fun while saying it.
.“Wapheni Imali” has a very direct message. What are you telling men?
I’m simply telling them to spoil their women and shower them with money and gifts. Laughs. There is no complicated message.
2. Your music often has a comedic and unexpected side. Why is that important to your artistry?
That is not the case with my music currently. That used to be the case because I wanted to use humour to build a platform. I’ve since taken a different direction, and my music is very serious.
3. You started with a viral diss track that introduced you to millions of people. How has the journey been since then, and how has your life changed since then?
It’s opened doors for me and allowed me to make a living doing what I love and never have to work a job; that’s how it changed my life. It has been a journey of learning and growing. The diss track gave me the attention, but I had to show people that I could actually build a career.
4. Viral success can be difficult to turn into longevity. What have been some of the biggest challenges in building a sustainable career beyond that first breakthrough?
Honestly speaking, the challenges have always been not having a record label or financial support behind the talent. That restricts one form from bringing the full vision to life.
5. What has kept you going through the highs, setbacks, and changes in the music industry, and what do you think has allowed you to remain relevant?
I believe in myself so much; I’m my biggest fan. Faith in myself has kept me going. I know and have always proven to myself that I will eventually win.
6. You are entering a new chapter with Asanda Empires. What are you hoping to achieve with the new management?
I’m hoping for a fruitful partnership, and that we become the biggest in the game. Watch out!
7. What do you want people to do when they hear “Wapheni Imali”?
Men, give women money. Women learn to ask men for money! I want us to start showing appreciation to women. They are the greatest and the best gift God gave to men. They should be treated like eggs. That’s what I want you to think of when listening to this song.
