After a seven-year hiatus from the music scene, South African artist and soulful house sensation Tumelo Ruele is back with his highly anticipated new album, Makuki. The nine-track album dropped on October 11, 2024, marking Tumelo’s powerful return to the spotlight with an emotional yet exciting collection of songs that pay tribute to love, loss, and life’s journey.
The title Makuki holds deep significance as it honors Tumelo’s late mother, who passed away in 2021, shortly after the loss of his sister in the same year. These devastating personal losses shaped much of the emotional foundation of the album. Through this body of work, Tumelo channels his grief, healing, and spiritual strength, blending these experiences into a musical journey that promises to resonate with listeners.
“I named this album after my mom, Makuki, because it reflects the music I know she would have loved,” Tumelo shares. “This album is a tribute to her memory, to the strength of my family, and to the people who supported me through the darkest time of my life. It’s an album of hope, reflection, and celebration.”
Following his last album release in 2017 under Universal Music, Tumelo took a step back from music to pursue a Management Advancement Program (PMD) at the prestigious Gordon Institute of Business Science. During this time, he reassessed his sound and took stock of the evolving music landscape. The COVID-19 pandemic further delayed his anticipated EP release in 2020, but it was the unexpected personal losses in 2021 that truly reshaped his path. “It was a long break, but one that allowed me to rediscover my purpose in music. This album isn’t just a return for me—it’s a new beginning.”
Makuki is Tumelo’s most personal project to date. Written over five years, the album blends soulful vocals with modern afro and deep tech beats, showcasing a mix of classic and contemporary influences. The lead single, “Hope You Don’t Mind,” produced by Favi Charles from Botswana, sets the tone for the album with its heartfelt message and rich production. Collaborations with key producers like Shivers BW, Njabulo Jiyane, and Gama Mathonsi also elevate the sound, combining elements of amapiano, gospel, and soulful house to create a dynamic yet cohesive listening experience.
The opening track, “Makuki’s Prayer,” composed by Gama Mathonsi, features a moving gospel introduction that captures the essence of Tumelo’s spiritual journey, while songs like “Ngiyazifela” and “Live Your Life” bring in fresh, vibrant beats that will resonate with both new and loyal fans.
To celebrate the release, Tumelo will be performing at a series of live events across South Africa and beyond, including shows at The Vaal Monateng Café (Evaton North, Vaal) on October 19, The Balcony (Honeydew Ridge) on October 26 and Meriting (Zastron, Free State) on 2 November before heading to international stages in Malaysia and Singapore in December and January.
For Tumelo, Makuki represents more than just music—it’s a tribute to his family, his roots, and the woman who inspired him the most. The album’s intro, “Makuki’s Prayer,” is one of the last prayers the family shared with his late mother, a moment that anchors the spirituality and faith infused throughout the project.
“I believe this is the most well-rounded album I’ve ever written,” Tumelo reflects. “It’s about growth, it’s about love, and it’s about resilience. I hope Makuki reaches the hearts of those who need it most.”
For more information on Tumelo Ruele, tour dates, and exclusive content, follow @TumeloRuele on all social media platforms.