Jazzwrld and Thukuthela’s debut album ‘The Most Wanted’ delivers hits and emotion

​The day we have been waiting for, as fans of the 3-Step sound or, more accurately, fans of house music, has finally arrived.

Jazzwrld and Thukuthela have released their debut album, “The Most Wanted”.

They are undeniably the leading names in the industry right now.

I first discovered the duo earlier this year through their hit songs “Isaka (6am)”, a collaboration with Ciza, and “Vuka” with Oscar Mbo.

Shortly after the success of these tracks, they delivered more chart-topping hits, including “Bengicela” featuring MaWhoo and GL_Ceejay, “uMa Wengane” with Sykes and Major League DJz, “Uzizwa Kanjan” featuring MaWhoo and GL_Ceejay, “Tholukuthi (Clap Song)” and “uValo” featuring Babalwa M and Dlala Thukzin.

All of these songs are catchy and worthy of Song of the Year consideration. With so many hits this year, I was curious what their debut album would offer.

Last month, Jazzworx and GL_Ceejay went through a traumatic ordeal when they were robbed and kidnapped during a home invasion. The perpetrators were after their studio computers. Despite this, the duo delivered on what they promised to their fans.

“The Most Wanted” contains 13 tracks with a total running time of one hour and fifteen minutes.

Some of the tracks worth noting include the acoustic version of “Vuka”, which opens the album. Here, Thukuthela’s voice carries more emotion, offering a different perspective on a song fans already know and love.

“Abekho”, featuring GL_Ceejay, is another notable track. It deals with the uncertainties of love that is no longer present. The lyrics, “Ngizibuza imibuzo eminingi, ukuthi uyangithanda, ngoba abaningi abasekho,” repeat throughout the song, creating a reflective mood.

Another track, “iNgoma Yomthandazo”, also features GL_Ceejay. It reflects on success and gratitude, thanking ancestors for the journey from nothing to something.

“Thando Lwakhe”, featuring Nokwazi, is a love song about enduring love. Nokwazi’s contribution stands out on the 3-Step platform, giving the song depth and meaning.

“Asilwi Na Bantu”, which translates loosely to “We’re not fighting with anyone”, emphasises living without conflict with others but staying aware of spiritual battles.

“IS’Babazo”, featuring The Joy, offers a more relaxed Afro-pop sound. It is the only track on the album that is not dance-focused besides the opening and closing tracks. The song expresses a desire for success, asking ancestors to open doors and allow progress.

Fans familiar with The Joy will recognise the emotional and expressive vocals.

“Ngine Ndaba”, featuring GL_Ceejay and Zee_nhle, is another love song that speaks about appreciation and respect in relationships.

“uMoya”, featuring Makhadzi, is a surprise collaboration. The song tells a story of patience and anticipation, reassuring a loved one that they will be reunited soon.

The album closes with an outro, a reprise of “Tholukuthi”. GL_Ceejay appears on most of the album, and I believe his contributions make it stronger. The synergy between the artists is clear, and they understand each other’s strengths.

This album is vocally strong, with many songs exploring love and life achievements. For a debut, they went all in.

I can confidently say that most of these tracks will be on repeat this festive season. Adding to the excitement, Jazzworx announced that he will now go by Jazzwrld, a move reflecting his global ambitions.

“It’s about taking our sound to the world. Afro-house and Afro-tech aren’t just genres, they’re movements, and we want the whole world to feel them,” he said.

Speaking about the album, Jazzwrld and Thukuthela shared: “This album is more than music, it’s a cultural statement."

"We wanted to create something that speaks to the times, something that moves people everywhere, whether they understand the lyrics or not. ‘The Most Wanted’ is about connecting through rhythm, energy and spirit.”

I give the album a thumbs up.

∎ “The Most Wanted’ is now available across all streaming platforms.