Njabulo Gumede (of Gqom production duo Rudeboyz)’s TikTok post began with a shot of Sykes chatting for a bit before trying to head out of the makeshift studio to smoke. He was scolded for not laying up his vocals yet, returned, and the freestyle that ensued went viral on social media.
The video, captioned “Khona into ezoba khona”, loosely translated to “there’s something that will come of this”, saw newcomer Sykes slide into the vocal layerings that would eventually make up “Sisekakeni Babies”. Gradually the studio ambient noise dropped and everyone listened in on the makings of a hit.
“I’m so excited to finally drop this single after all the hype online,” he says. “At first, I thought I might miss the opportunity if I take too long but the hype keeps getting bigger and bigger.” The new single is basically about forgetting about one’s worries and having a good time with some close friends.
“It’s so funny because basically everyone is taking it as meaning that everyone is in trouble when this kid drops. But all I meant is the ladies are in trouble because we’re about to go on a trip, we’re about to spend money, all those luxurious things.”
The newcomer has partnered with Nomcebo Zikode’s record label, Emazulwini Productions, for the release of the single. “Sykes is such a special talent and there were so many different record labels trying to sign him. I’m so proud that he chose us and trusted us to work with him on this new hit single. He’s got such a bright future and we’ve got some incredible things planned for him soon,” Nomcebo said.
If you haven’t yet, take a listen to Sykes’ “Sisekakeni Babies” here.