Alexandra musician GhettoBoi IV released his new track, ‘Iphupho’, on August 21, describing it as far more than just a song. “Iphupho to me means the bigger picture or the future,” he said. “It’s about sensing the energy of what I believe in and what I can achieve. It is like a guy who had a dream and is now making it happen.”

The artist long wanted a song that would properly introduce his craft to a wider audience, with inspiration striking unexpectedly. “There was this video I saw on TikTok of a guy playing guitar,” he said. “It reminded me of who I am, and I ended up writing the lyrics without a complete beat.”

Unplanned studio collaboration

The recording session with producer KaYX took an unplanned turn when Ngqimu arrived at the studio. “The collaboration with Ngqimu was completely unplanned,” said GhettoBoi IV. “As I was recording, I realised I didn’t have a feature and I didn’t want to force a second verse because I felt it would ruin the idea of the track. I asked Ngqimu to jump on it. We helped each other to make sure the song was balanced and everything felt right.”

Even the chorus evolved in the moment. “When we finished recording, the chorus wasn’t really working for me, but I had something in my head — harmony,” he said. “The energy in the studio was so positive that I stepped out of my comfort zone. We recorded and added vocals that we felt would work.”

Growing up in a township has shaped both the sound and the message of the track. “It is important because I grew up in a township and I love culture. By putting those elements into the track, I am showing that I am proud of who I am. I also want to inspire someone out there. I want to remind people of who they are. We shouldn’t be afraid of our culture, our colour or our talent.”

Overcoming grief and self-doubt

The creative process was not without its challenges. While writing and recording, GhettoBoi IV was still grieving the loss of a close friend. “The biggest challenge was missing my friend who passed away, Siyabonga Ndlovu,” he said. “I was also scared to drop the song because I had doubts. Every time I listened to it, my heart was beating fast. I couldn’t believe it. Everyone who heard it before it dropped told me not to sleep on it and that I was almost there. I decided to drop it anyway. I started promoting and posting, hoping for the best even though I was scared. This track really gave me goosebumps. I think I healed through it. I am happy and proud.”

He encourages others to stop doubting themselves, noting that everything happens for a reason, everyone makes mistakes, and people should keep working hard while remembering their roots.

For GhettoBoi IV, ‘Iphupho’ represents a new chapter. “All these past years I have been working hard to make sure my music works for me. This represents a new chapter because the music I am making and planning now is on another level. Even the strategies are extremely creative. Expect more from me.”

He is proud of the finished product and is already looking ahead, promising more collaborations and big projects for his listeners.

‘Iphupho’ (featuring Ngqimu) is available to stream on Spotify.

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