The South African music community is still mourning the heartbreaking loss of Afro-soul sensation Yallunder, who passed away in March 2025. Known for her hauntingly beautiful voice and powerful storytelling, Yallunder touched many lives through her music. Now, two months after her passing, legendary music producer Oskido has released an acoustic version of their unreleased collaboration, “Ntwana Yam,” reigniting conversations around her talent and legacy.
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A Voice That Moved the Nation
Yallunder, born Yolanda Nyembezi, was celebrated for her rich vocals and the depth she brought to every performance. Her music was a seamless fusion of Afro-soul, traditional influences, and modern lyrical power, which resonated strongly with South African audiences. Songs like “Ndinovalo” and “Uthando Lwam” cemented her place in the hearts of many, and her sudden passing at the age of 30 left fans and fellow artists reeling.
In tributes shared across social media, many described Yallunder as not just a phenomenal singer, but a kind soul and a true creative spirit. Her family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, highlighting how her music would remain her eternal gift to the world.
Oskido Releases Acoustic Tribute: “Ntwana Yam”
In a surprise announcement, Oskido revealed the release of an acoustic version of “Ntwana Yam,” a song the two artists recorded together before her death. The stripped-down rendition is deeply emotional, allowing Yallunder’s raw vocal power to shine through. According to Oskido, this version of the track was something Yallunder had been particularly proud of, and releasing it was his way of honouring her memory.
Speaking on the release, Oskido said, “Yallunder was a rare gem. Her voice carried stories of hope, love, and identity. This song is our final goodbye—but also a reminder that she’s still here through the art she left behind.”
Fan Reactions: A Legacy Carried Forward
The release of “Ntwana Yam” has sparked a wave of emotion online. Fans are flooding social platforms with memories of Yallunder’s music. Many have shared how her songs helped them through tough times. Hashtags like #YallunderLegacy and #NtwanaYam are now trending. People are celebrating her not just as a singer, but as a cultural icon.
For many, the timing of the release feels symbolic. It comes as South Africa marks Women’s Month and reflects on the role of female voices in the arts. This posthumous track highlights just how powerful Yallunder’s contribution was.
Her Influence on Afro-Soul and Beyond
Yallunder was more than a singer she was a storyteller. She used her platform to highlight issues of love, vulnerability, spirituality, and Black identity, often drawing on her Xhosa heritage to add authenticity and depth. Her presence was refreshing in an industry often dominated by commercial pop sounds.
Younger musicians have credited Yallunder as a source of inspiration, saying her vocal control, lyrical authenticity, and fearlessness in expressing emotion gave them permission to be true to themselves in their own art.
What’s Next?
Oskido has confirmed that “Ntwana Yam” will feature on his upcoming album Next Gen, expected to release in June 2025. He also hinted at the possibility of a visual tribute, either in the form of a short documentary or a music video that celebrates Yallunder’s musical journey. Fans can look forward to more announcements in the coming weeks.
A Light That Will Never Fade
Although Yallunder’s life was tragically cut short, her influence remains powerful. The posthumous release of “Ntwana Yam” is a reminder of the impact one voice can have. Through every lyric and note, she continues to inspire a new generation of artists and uplift fans navigating life’s complexities.
As we remember Yallunder, we also celebrate the timeless nature of her art. Her legacy lives on not just in the songs she recorded, but in the hearts she touched and the future she helped shape.
