Ndu Browns transitions from Blaq Diamond to solo artist: a bold new era begins

Ndu Browns, born Ndumiso Mdletshe, is stepping into a new chapter of his career with his highly anticipated solo debut.

Browns is preparing to release his first solo single, “Ubuhle Bakho”, on Friday, September 12, which coincides with his 31st birthday.

Born and raised in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Browns has become a household name in South Africa’s music scene.

He is celebrated for his soulful voice, storytelling and the ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary Afro-pop rhythms.

With Blaq Diamond, Browns rose to national recognition through multiplatinum albums and chart-topping singles. Their 2020 album “Umuthi" cemented their status, while their signature style earned them widespread acclaim and a loyal fan base across Africa. 

Earlier this year, he announced his solo career, signalling a new direction in his artistry.

“September 12 carries more than the weight of a birthday,” Browns told “Independent Media Lifestyle”.

“It marks the release of my debut solo single. I feel like I’m entering a new chapter in my life. I’m growing up, and with that growth comes the courage to explore my sound and really expand on my music. This feels like the perfect time to take that leap.”

Blaq Diamond has been central to shaping SA’s Afro-pop sound in recent years.

Alongside Danya Devs, Browns created a style that blended storytelling with modern rhythms, earning a loyal following. Stepping into the solo spotlight, he said that this is not a departure but an expansion.

“Helping build Blaq Diamond was a privilege,” he said.

“What’s beautiful is that we were able to build our individual brands at the same time. That’s why this transition feels natural. I also have fans who are just as passionate about my sound and vibe as I am. They’re constantly feeding me energy and keeping me inspired.”

For Browns, the solo journey is about both vulnerability and experimentation.

“People are going to get a chance to see my personal life in a way I’ve never really shared before,” he explained.

“I don’t think I’ve ever let my music or the public see enough of who I truly am, where I’m from or how I grew up. Now, I’m opening that door. Fans will get to know my story, my highs and lows, my relationships, both the ones that thrived and the ones that didn’t.”

That openness is evident in his debut single, “Ubuhle Bakho”.

The song blends R&B, UK drill and isicathamiya, a traditional vocal style from his hometown.

“I discovered a beat with a UK R&B feel and a drill edge,” he said.

“I reached out to the producer, Mulak, and we shared the same vision. Once I recorded the track, I realised it needed more of me in it. I called my friends, Bergville Green Lovers, to add the isicathamiya influence. That’s the sound I grew up around.” 

The collaboration produced what Browns described as “a one-of-one blend of R&B, UK drill and authentic South African roots.”

He added, “The song came together so beautifully. It’s not just a song, it’s a whole new sound.”

Browns sees fusion as central to his vision.

“I believe we are the leaders of Afro-pop in South Africa. In my opinion, what we’ve been doing over the years has been groundbreaking. It’s important to keep pushing boundaries, exploring new sounds and blending influences."

"My goal is for this music to grow beyond Africa. That’s why I’m collaborating with people outside the continent and pushing the sound to bigger platforms.”

He is also taking a larger role in production.

“A lot of people don’t know how deeply I’m involved in the production side of things,” he said.

“I’m experimenting, fusing genres and really stepping into my role as a producer. Listeners are going to hear fresh ideas and sounds that they’ve never heard before.”

Browns plans to share behind-the-scenes content. “I want to show how I create music from scratch to the final product. This solo journey is giving me the space to show just how invested I am in the craft.”

Despite going solo, Browns said Blaq Diamond remains intact.

“Every step along the way has prepared me for where I am now. The duo gave me room to experiment, to test out different sounds and to grow in so many areas as an artist. That foundation is why I’m able to take this step today.”

With “Ubuhle Bakho” marking the start of his solo catalogue, Browns frames this moment not as a breakaway but as an expansion of the creative universe he and his partner helped build.

“It’s an exciting time, and I can’t wait for people to experience it with me,” he said.