“From the whispers of wise Ancestors, a primal call echoes—a summons to unite under Ubuntu’s embrace. Elders and youth stride as one, their voices weaving a timeless chorus of faith and prayer…”
So begins the evocative blurb of Call Of The Ancestors, the first single of 2025 from Cape Town’s boutique label soWHAT Records. This release unites the talents of UPZ, the house producer behind classics like Pure Surprise, Believing, and Uzongilinda; Digital Sangoma, a visionary vocalist and music producer; and the charismatic trumpeter Mo-T, known for Horns in the Sun (with DJ Kent & Thakzin) and as one-third of the acclaimed trio Mi Casa. Together, they embark on a sonic journey that bridges generations and genres.
“…This odyssey sweeps from rural Africa through sacred churches, landing in Sophiatown’s nostalgic glow. Log drums pulse, 3-step rhythms hum, and jazz-kissed keys shift, blending old and new. A united chant rises, carrying Southern Africa’s soul-stirring sounds and historic heartbeat—a sonic journey of roots and renewal.”
The track’s poetic essence unfolds:
A Fusion of Legacy and Innovation
The collaboration began in 2023 when UPZ and Mo-T, after crossing paths in Johannesburg, envisioned a jazz-fusion house production influenced by legends like Pat Metheny and Herb Alpert. By 2024, Mo-T had joined UPZ—now based in Cape Town—at Digital Sangoma’s home studio, where they layered vocals, trumpet flourishes, and innovative textures, culminating in Call Of The Ancestors.
“I’ve admired Mo-T’s work for years. After connecting, we became friends and knew a collaboration was inevitable. Last year, that moment arrived. Mo-T called, saying he was in town with a stunning record alongside UPZ. I didn’t realize I’d already played UPZ’s music countless times—Mo-T just grinned and said, ‘Trust me, you do.’ He was right! The session was electric, and I’m grateful for what I learned from these two incredible artists.”
Reflecting on the creative process, Digital Sangoma shares:
“This is one of my most unique works and collabs. The song’s linear, almost jazz-like structure takes you on a journey—bookended by the hook, with a gospel-inspired vocal from Digital Sangoma, Mo-T’s sick trumpet solos, unexpected key changes, and rich chants in between. It’s a blend of spontaneity and soul.”
UPZ adds:
A New Milestone for soWHAT Records
Released under soWHAT Records, Call Of The Ancestors joins a prestigious catalog featuring productions by luminaries such as Black Motion, UPZ, DJ Ganyani, Sio, Cuebur, Black Coffee, Sofiya Nzau, MFR Souls, DJ Qness, Kali Mija, Mariechan, and Proverb, among others. More than just a single, Call of The Ancestors is a celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity.
