Acclaimed Lesotho-born singer-songwriter Maleh stands at the threshold of a powerful new chapter defined by renewal, faith, and artistic clarity. This March, she brings her long-awaited new album, Dithapelo, to life in a once-off live concert at Johannesburg’s iconic Market Theatre.
Renowned for her commanding yet tender vocal presence, Maleh has built a career rooted in depth and authenticity. Drawing from her Basotho heritage, her music blends Afro-soul, Afro-pop, and gospel influences into a sound that feels both intimate and expansive. With Dithapelo, she turns inward, offering a body of work shaped by reflection, prayer, and spiritual awakening.
A Fitting Stage for a Transformative Album
Situated in the heart of Newtown, the Market Theatre stands as one of South Africa’s most storied cultural landmarks – a fitting setting for an album that speaks to both personal transformation and shared human experience.
The concert follows closely on the release of Dithapelo, whose singles have already resonated strongly with audiences. The title track “Dithapelo”, along with follow-up releases “Baba” and “Umusa”, has drawn widespread acclaim, positioning the album as one of Maleh’s most compelling offerings to date.
Strong Streaming Momentum and Editorial Support
Ahead of its official release, Dithapelo surpassed 150 000 streams, reflecting strong anticipation from listeners. The latest single, “Umusa”, has received notable editorial support across major streaming platforms.
Tracks from the album have appeared on Spotify playlists including New Music Friday South Africa, New Music Friday Naija, New Music Friday Ghana, EQUAL Africa, Lehlaso, Afro & Soul, and Made In South Africa. On Apple Music, the project has received widespread support on Mzansi Soul, New Music Daily, and New in Gospel.
A Night of Soul, Spirit, and Storytelling
This album launch performance promises far more than a concert. Audiences will be invited into Maleh’s most vulnerable and spiritually rich work yet – an immersive experience where song becomes testimony and melody carries meaning beyond sound.
Reflecting on the album, Maleh shares: “This album is an offering. I wanted to invite people into my personal conversations with my Maker, the Most High God, my prayers set to music. Sonically, the work remains soulful, but it carries more depth, more stillness, and more truth.”
“It comes from a place of surrender, reflection, and renewal, where faith and artistry meet without compromise. This is the most honest music I’ve ever made, and I hope that when people hear it, they hear themselves too — their questions, their prayers, their hope. I can’t wait to share this next chapter with the world.”
Event Details
- Event: Maleh Live at the Market Theatre
- Date: Saturday, 28 March 2026
- Venue: The Market Theatre, Newtown, Johannesburg
- Tickets: R275 via Webtickets
- Bookings: Webtickets.co.za
More info about Maleh
Born in Lesotho, Maleh is widely regarded as one of Southern Africa’s most distinctive Afro-soul voices. She first rose to prominence as a member of the award-winning Afro-pop group Kaya before launching a celebrated solo career. Her debut album, Step Child, earned her a SAMA for Best African Adult Album and produced enduring hits such as “Chimsoro” and “Under My Skin”.
Her international breakthrough came with “You Make My Heart Go”, which topped charts across Africa and Europe and was named one of the Top Five African Songs by The Guardian UK. Over the years, Maleh has shared stages with global icons including Angie Stone, Tamia, Keri Hilson, and the late Oliver Mtukudzi.
Following a period of creative retreat, she returned in 2022 with Lerato Laka, earning a Basadi Women in Music Award and reaffirming her reputation as a storyteller of rare emotional depth. With Dithapelo, released in November 2025 and featuring rising Mosotho artist Mzizi, Maleh enters a season of artistic and spiritual renewal – offering music shaped by prayer, purpose, and profound self-discovery.
Maleh is powered by Bassline Artist Management, Labelheaded, and I Be Music.
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