SAMA-nominated singer-songwriter Ndu Shezi is turning inward with her latest single, “Gugu Lami,” a deeply personal musical reflection on faith, gratitude and the spiritual richness she finds in her relationship with God.
Seen Here: The SAMA-nominated singer-songwriter reflects on her relationship with God, celebrating a kind of richness that transcends material wealth. Rooted in Zulu expression and heartfelt testimony, “Gugu Lami” is a tender reminder of finding comfort, strength and peace in faith. With its soulful sound and deeply personal message, Ndu Shezi continues to carve out a distinctive space in South African music. Photo Credit: Supplied
Rooted in Zulu expression and personal testimony, the song offers listeners an intimate glimpse into what faith means to the Durban-born artist.
At the heart of “Gugu Lami” is the declaration, “Awu yebo ngicebile” — “Oh yes, I am rich.” But for Shezi, that richness is not measured by material wealth. Instead, it speaks to the comfort and abundance she experiences through her relationship with God.
That sentiment is echoed in the lyric “Kuwena ngiyazimela” — “Unto you, I can lean [and rest]” — while the recurring phrase “Gugu lami,” meaning “My treasure,” serves as an affectionate expression of the value she places on her faith.
Together, the lyrics create a song centred on spiritual reassurance, gratitude and finding peace in something greater than oneself.
“The inspiration was my relationship with God and just expressing what that means to me,” says Shezi.
Rather than approaching faith through grand declarations, Shezi allows the song to unfold as a sincere and intimate expression of personal experience.
Produced by Shezi alongside Junior Petja and Sphiwe Moloi, the track features a band of accomplished musicians whose contributions give the composition space to breathe while supporting its reflective character.
“Gugu Lami” follows Shezi’s 2024 single “Ngowakho,” featuring Ndabo Zulu, and builds on the musical journey established through her debut album, “Isibusiso Sami.”
Released in 2024, the album earned Shezi a South African Music Award nomination for Best African Adult Contemporary, marking an important milestone in the emerging artist’s career.
A musical journey rooted in KwaZulu-Natal
Born in Durban, Shezi’s music is deeply influenced by the rich Zulu cultural and musical traditions of her upbringing in KwaZulu-Natal.
She grew up in a musical family where singing was woven into everyday life. It was within that environment that her connection to music developed, with Shezi describing her gift and anointing as central to the artist she has become.
She introduced herself to a wider South African audience with her 2018 debut single, “Ngthanda Wena,” which quickly found an audience among local music lovers.
Her subsequent body of work has allowed her to explore different dimensions of her artistry while maintaining the cultural and vocal qualities that have become part of her musical identity.
Shezi draws inspiration from a broad spectrum of South African and international artists and has expressed an interest in future collaborations with acclaimed musicians including Thandiswa Mazwai, Sjava and Langa Mavuso.
With further collaborations and new music on the horizon, she continues to shape an evolving catalogue that refuses to be confined to a single musical style.
For Shezi, “Gugu Lami” represents more than another release. It is a personal offering — a song through which she shares the gratitude, reassurance and spiritual richness she has found in her faith.
“Gugu Lami” is available now on major streaming platforms.Listen to Gugu Lami here:
