HO LOKILE by 9umba featuring TJ Mengus is a soulful, spiritually infused Amapiano anthem that merges deep emotion with rhythmic precision. The title, “Ho Lokile,” is a Sotho phrase meaning “It’s alright” or “Everything is okay.” That phrase alone sets the tone for a track that’s both uplifting and introspective — a musical reassurance that even through struggle, faith and resilience will carry you through.
9umba recently appeared on NKULUNKULU featuring NoxieKay.
From the very beginning, the production reveals 9umba’s signature sound design — a fusion of minimalistic but layered instrumentation, warm pads, and detailed percussive arrangements. The beat glides between deep basslines and shimmering log drums, perfectly balanced with gentle chords that create an almost meditative atmosphere. The song feels both grounding and transcendent, as if it’s meant to comfort the listener while still keeping them in motion.
TJ Mengus’s vocals are at the emotional center of Ho Lokile. His delivery is calm yet commanding, imbued with sincerity and warmth. He sings with a quiet conviction that mirrors the message of acceptance and peace at the heart of the track. His tone feels spiritual and hopeful — as though he’s speaking directly to anyone carrying a heavy heart. The repetition of “Ho Lokile” throughout the chorus becomes more than just a lyric; it turns into a mantra, a declaration that everything will indeed be okay.
The lyrical content is reflective and healing. It conveys messages of endurance, gratitude, and the importance of maintaining faith through difficulty. There’s a gentle humility in how the words flow — simple but profound. Instead of overloading the song with complex verses, 9umba and TJ Mengus allow the emotion to take center stage. The minimal lyricism enhances its universality; whether you speak Sotho or not, you can feel the comfort and emotional release it brings.
Musically, the arrangement evolves gradually — the first half is introspective, with soft chords and subtle percussive clicks. As the track progresses, the log drum deepens, and atmospheric textures begin to layer, giving it a celestial depth. The rhythm grows fuller without losing its meditative pulse, and by the midpoint, the track achieves that quintessential Amapiano groove: deeply rooted yet airy, reflective yet alive.
9umba – HO LOKILE ft. TJ Mengus
