South African hip-hop veteran Ma-E is turning back the clock while giving one of his best-known songs a modern makeover.
The rapper has announced ‘Ubzukuzuku 2.0’, a revamped version of his popular track featuring Amapiano star Focalistic. The highly anticipated collaboration is scheduled for release on 11 September 2026, bringing together two artists from different generations of South Africa’s street-music culture.
Originally released in 2016 on Ma-E’s solo album Township Counsellor, ‘Ubzukuzuku’ became part of the catalogue that cemented his reputation as a distinctive voice in South African township storytelling.
Almost a decade later, Ma-E is breathing new life into the song by teaming up with Focalistic, one of the leading figures of the Amapiano movement.
The collaboration is expected to blend Ma-E’s established hip-hop sound with Focalistic’s energetic, dance-driven approach, creating a fresh version of a track that longtime fans already know and love.
Ma-E and Focalistic bring two eras together
Ma-E, whose real name is Ezee Hanabe, has enjoyed a career spanning several chapters of South African hip-hop. He first gained widespread recognition as a member of Teargas, alongside K.O and Ntukza, before pursuing his own path as a solo artist.
His music has consistently reflected township life, street culture and the experiences that have shaped his journey in the industry.
Focalistic, meanwhile, has become one of the most recognisable names in Amapiano. The artist, whose real name is Lethabo Sebetso, has built a strong identity around combining rap, street culture and the infectious rhythms of Amapiano.
Known to fans as the “President Ya Straata,” Focalistic has helped push the genre beyond South Africa’s borders with songs such as Ke Star and numerous high-profile collaborations.
That makes Ubzukuzuku 2.0 an intriguing meeting of styles. Ma-E brings the nostalgia and lyrical identity of the original, while Focalistic adds a contemporary Amapiano flavour designed for a new generation of listeners.
A new chapter for an old favourite
Ma-E has already given fans glimpses of the revamped record through previews, sparking interest around what the full release will sound like.
The decision to revisit Ubzukuzuku also highlights the growing trend of established South African artists reimagining older material for today’s audience.
For longtime Ma-E supporters, the release offers an opportunity to reconnect with a familiar record. For younger listeners discovering the song for the first time, Focalistic’s involvement could provide a bridge between the country’s hip-hop heritage and its dominant contemporary sound.
With 11 September now marked as the official release date, anticipation is building around Ubzukuzuku 2.0.
Ma-E is revisiting his past, Focalistic is bringing the Amapiano energy, and together they could turn an old favourite into a brand-new street anthem.
