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Johannesburg, get ready for all the chills, and no, we're not talking about the weather. J’Something has just dropped a stirring new rendition of the iconic anti-apartheid anthem, Asimbonanga, featuring the unmistakable legacy of the late, great Johnny Clegg.
If you grew up in SA, you know this isn’t just a song, it’s the heartbeat of a movement. Originally penned by Clegg and Savuka as a daring call for Nelson Mandela’s release, the track has been reimagined for 2026, bridging the gap between our history and the vibrant contemporary sounds of Johannesburg today.
The Scatterlings Project
Now I know what you're thinking: contemporary artists reimagining such politically significant South African classics can be a bit prickly, but thankfully, this release isn’t a one-off. It serves as the lead single for the upcoming Scatterlings album, a deeply personal concept project curated by Johnny’s son, Jesse Clegg, and the incomparable Msaki.
The album is a “who’s who” of South African excellence, featuring a collective of heavyweights, including Zakes Bantwini (Grammy-winner and dancefloor king), Sun-El Musician, Simmy, MUZI and Zolani Mahola.
"Growing up in South Africa, Johnny Clegg wasn’t just a musician; he was a voice of truth, unity, and courage," says J’Something. “To be able to reinterpret Asimbonanga is something I don’t take lightly. It’s an honour beyond words.”
Mark your calendars: The festival
To make things even more interesting, the music is just the beginning. The release is building massive momentum toward the Scatterlings Music Festival, taking over Huddle Park on August 1st.
Expect an unforgettable winter afternoon in the Johannesburg sun, celebrating the spirit of a nation with a lineup that blends legacy with the modern frontier of Afro-house, pop, and folk.
- When: 1 August 2026
- Where: Huddle Park, Linksfield
- Tickets: Available now via Webtickets
Asimbonanga is now available to stream on all major platforms. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the “White Zulu” or discovering this history for the first time, this is the track your playlist needs this week.
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