Blending Afro-soul, Afro-pop and contemporary African sounds, Benzo’s deeply personal debut EP, Gciniwe, is a heartfelt tribute to his mother this Women’s month, celebrating the love, sacrifices and unwavering support that shaped both his life and his music.
This woman’s month, acclaimed DJ and producer Benzo is inviting listeners into the most personal chapter of his life with the release of his four-track EP, Gciniwe, arriving on 7 August 2026.
Far more than just another music project, Gciniwe is a deeply emotional dedication to Benzo’s mother, the woman whose love, sacrifices and unwavering support shaped the man and artist he has become. The EP cover carries the heartfelt message, “Thank you for the love that raised me,” while underneath the title it reads, “Dedicated to my mother” – setting the tone for a body of work rooted in gratitude, healing and family.
The four-track EP features:
- Gciniwe (Intro – Benzo)
- Ngizwile (Benzo)
- Mthandazo (Benzo & Megamind Nova)
- Ufunani (Benzo Ft. Blaq Seed, Mailo Music x Salaminah)
Leading the project is Ufunani, with Megamind Nova, the first official single from Gciniwe, which will spearhead the EP’s promotional campaign through radio, digital platforms and live performances.
Known to fans as one of South Africa’s most energetic DJs, Benzo, born Banele Sotomela, has spent years making people dance across South Africa and neighbouring countries. From his beginnings in Butterworth in the Eastern Cape to becoming a sought-after performer for clubs, festivals, and private events, his journey has always been powered by music and human connection.
With Gciniwe, however, he steps away from the DJ booth to tell a story that is intensely personal.
“This EP is my way of saying thank you to the woman who gave me everything before I had anything. Every song carries a piece of my heart and a piece of her love,” says Benzo.
“I’ve spent years helping people create memories through music. This time, I wanted to create something that preserves one of my own. My mother is the reason I never gave up, and this project is dedicated to her.”
The project reflects a more vulnerable side of the artist, balancing soulful storytelling with heartfelt melodies that celebrate love, resilience and faith. The inclusion of Mthandazo (“Prayer”) further reflects the spiritual undertones woven throughout the EP.
For Benzo, whose career has seen him travel extensively while entertaining audiences in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Lesotho, music has always been about bringing people together. He has often described himself simply as “a DJ” rather than limiting himself to one genre, believing that great music transcends labels.
“This isn’t about chasing trends or making another hit. It’s about leaving something meaningful behind. If even one person listens to these songs and thinks about calling their mother, forgiving someone they love or appreciating the people who raised them, then I’ve achieved what I wanted.”
While fans know Benzo for reading crowds and creating unforgettable moments behind the decks, Gciniwe offers something different: an invitation into the heart of an artist whose greatest inspiration has always been home.
As listeners prepare to experience the EP on 7 August, Benzo hopes the project will remind people that behind every dream is often someone who quietly sacrificed so that dream could become reality.
“Gciniwe belongs to everyone who has ever been loved into becoming who they are. This is my thank you.”
