In an interview with BubblegumClub, South African artist Thando, also known as ‘Th&o.‘, discusses his creative journey and influences while unveiling his latest single, Lonely? (Come Along). Four years ago, we covered the release of his first album and it seems apt to do some coverage on this new release. The track is laced with his signature “Afrotronic” sound—a blend of synthpop, electro-funk, contemporary R&B, and loads of guitar—and it basically operates as a preview of his upcoming second album, Emlotheni, set for release later this year.
In Lee Nxumalo’s BubblegumClub article, Th&o.’s debut album Ebusuku was recognized as an overlooked gem from 2020. Initially unnoticed, the single Prosecco gained traction after Grammy-winning producer Jermaine Dupri featured it in playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. The 12-track album explored nocturnal themes, blending R&B, funk, electronica, and alternative influences. It captured the intensified emotions of night time and its intimacy, culminated in tracks oozing love and sensuality.
“Music has always been a part of my life,” Th&o. recalls when asked about his early inspirations. “I grew up surrounded by it, and I’ve always had this fascination with speakers, sound, and how music can transform a space. I still have this picture of me as a kid, just turning up the sound. That passion turned into an obsession, and soon I went from being a fan to wanting to create my own music.” With influences like Caiphus Semenya, Jamiroquai, Hugh Masekela, and Fela Kuti, Th&o. says, “I never think within the boundaries of what’s ‘accepted.’ I draw from everything I love, and I create without worrying about how it fits into a category.”
When pressed on the pressures of navigating the intersection between traditional African music and global genres like pop and psychedelic rock, Th&o was steadfast: “I don’t feel any pressure. I’m African—it’s who I am, and it flows naturally in and out of my music when it feels like it. But I never feel the need to force my identity into my work. It’s always there, organically.” Despite the online buzz surrounding his sound and aesthetic, Th&o. describes his creative process as intuitive, following what the music “tells him,” rather than chasing trends or clout.
This notion of organic practice showed up on his earlier album, Ebusuku. “That project was very specific. I was driving a lot at night while working on it, and that nocturnal feeling—dark, moody, but calm—became a big part of the sound palette I was reaching for.” In discussing his music videos, such as the visually captivating Prosecco, Th&o. explains how he translates his sonic themes into visual language. “I’ve always followed what the music says. The lyrics, the sound, the visuals—they all inform each other. Nothing is ever forced; I let the music dictate where it wants to go. That’s how I approach my visuals too. It all needs to feel connected.”
Just as Ebusuku’s closing track, The Morning, reflected Th&o.’s creative transition from night to day—hinting perhaps at the developing, lighter themes of this current era, so does Lonely, an atmospheric and immersive song, speak to where the artist is creatively. “I’ve always wanted to write a song that wasn’t too heavy […] A lot of my earlier work was very melancholic—’sad boy’ music, as people call it. Lonely was different. […] I wanted something that wasn’t too deep or emotional, just a fun, cute song. It might be my last happy one,” he laughs.
There is continuity in this current creative phase, with the dark and nocturnal themes making themselves clear in the title. In addition to this, while Th&o.’s sound typically incorporates African rhythms, in this new phase, it remains unafraid to mix in elements like electric guitars and synthesizers, continuously pushing the boundaries of what African music can be. “The new album will be even more eclectic. You’ve only heard Lonely so far, but as the project unfolds, you’ll understand more of what I mean by Afrotronic.”
But when asked what the genre could contribute to the local music scene, Th&o. resisted the idea that he’s deliberately pushing the boundaries of alternative music in South Africa. “I don’t want to take responsibility for that,” he says. “I’m on my own quest as an artist, challenging myself to do better, to try something new, and to make music that resonates with me. I’m not here to think about what the scene or the market will say.”
His new album, Emlotheni, feels deeply narrative and immersive, gently inviting listeners on a sonically sensual trip. “I share a lot of myself in my music,” he explains. “I want people to listen with an open heart and maybe resonate with what I’m saying. If they don’t, that’s okay too. It just means they’re on a different journey.” As Th&o. prepares to release more music and visuals from Emlotheni, his message remains clear: “I’m just here to create and share where I’m at right now in sound.” With Lonely? (Come Along), he continues to experiment with new sonic elements, expanding his artistic range and inventing new ways of sounding.
