Carswald-based musician releases five-track EP, few months after releasing single
Yolanda Xakeka, popularly known as Firstladyrsa, says working on the EP afforded her the opportunity to explore various sounds and emotions.
Carlswald-based DJ, vocalist, and songwriter Yolanda Xakeka (36) says putting together her EP was an exciting and eye-opening journey.
The EP, Ngcwele, comes a few months after Xakeka, affectionately known as Firstladyrsa, released a single, Abaphansi, in March this year.
Xakeka said the single helped her understand what people connect with, and that guided the creative direction of the entire project.
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“Working on the EP allowed me to explore different sounds, emotions, and stories on a deeper level. It pushed me to grow as an artist – experiment, collaborate more, and trust my instincts. Overall, it was a challenging but rewarding experience, which shaped me both musically and personally.”
She said the five-track EP’s name, Ngcwele, came from the spiritual theme that runs through the entire project. When asked how the name came about, Xakeka said, while creating the EP, she found herself tapping into emotions and experiences that felt deeply personal and sacred.
“The name chose itself. It felt natural, honest, and true to the music. Each song carried a sense of purity, healing, and reflection, and the word: Ngcwele, captured that feeling perfectly. It represents the journey, the message, and the energy I want listeners to experience.”
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Xakeka said her music journey began at the Zion Church of South Africa, with drumming and performances while being raised in Mathatha, in the Eastern Cape.
“I grew up in the Zion Church of South Africa, raised by my grandparents after losing both my parents at a young age. My grandparents truly inspired my journey, and I am a reflection of the love and leadership they poured into me.”
Besides music, Xakeka has a second passion, that of being a pharmacist. She also holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the University of Western Cape, which she said runs parallel with her passion for music.
Xakeka concluded that she is still a pharmacist, she’s still learning, and she doesn’t plan to stop, after being a pharmacist for over a decade.
“In fact, I’m strongly considering pursuing a Master’s in Pharmacology, to deepen my expertise and continue contributing meaningfully to the health of our society.”
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