By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The multi-platinum award-winning vocalist, Judith Sephuma, known for her iconic debut A Cry, A Smile, A Dance, returns with her much-anticipated new album titled When Winter Fades.
It has been five years since the release of Sephuma’s last studio project, Power of Dreams.
Sephuma, has spent the past few years touring extensively across Europe, performing to international audiences and cementing her reputation as South Africa’s “Queen of Afro Jazz.”
Now, Sephuma returns with her 8-track Afro Jazz album, recorded live in-studio with her band, is a deeply personal project produced by Job Thako and mixed and mastered at Audio Mix.
The album will officially be released on 31 October 2025 across all digital platforms, preceded by the staggered release of four singles from 12 September 2025, each dropping two weeks apart.
- 12 September 2025 – Back To Love
“This was such a difficult decision for my team and distributors because every track on the album is special. Back To Love was ultimately chosen as the lead single because it reflects why I started making music in the first place – music is my first love. At times we forget the importance of recording, but it always brings me back to myself,” says Judith.
• 26 September 2025 – Mokete
A celebration song fit for any occasion. Whether it’s a wedding or a joyous gathering, this track is a true anthem for togetherness.
• 10 October 2025 – Call My Name
A soulful and heartfelt song that evolved into a beautiful sing-along piece.
• 24 October 2025 – Makeba
A heartfelt tribute to the legendary Mama Miriam Makeba, whose music, along with that of Mama Letta Mbulu and Sibongile Khumalo, shaped Judith’s artistic journey.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind When Winter Fades, Judith explains: “We should always know that seasons change. Life is not static. Seasons teach us life lessons – that there is time for joy, change, and rest. We can learn and draw so much from the rhythm of the seasons.”
When Winter Fades is a positive, uplifting, and inspiring body of work that celebrates the resilience and beauty of life’s transitions. The album is recorded under Lalomba Music and distributed by Virgin Music Group South Africa.