South African vocal group The Joy have released a new single, ‘Omunye’, an Afro-pop track that explores themes of love while signaling a broader pop direction ahead of a forthcoming EP.
The song weaves together Zulu and English lyrics, pairing the group’s signature harmonies with modern pop production. It was crafted with songwriters and producers Gian Stone (known for work with Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber) and Sol Was (who has credits with Beyoncé and Timbaland). The single also extends the group’s ongoing collaboration with producer Two Inch Punch.
The group’s team describes ‘Omunye’ as a step forward in The Joy’s musical journey, one that preserves the vocal harmonies and South African roots central to their identity.
The release follows a period of rising international visibility for the KwaZulu-Natal quintet. They have drawn support from artists such as Justin Bieber, Alicia Keys, Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith and Jennifer Hudson, and have collaborated directly with Doja Cat and The Blessed Madonna. The Joy first broke through with the viral debut single ‘Isencane Lengane’ and the 2021 EP Amabutho. Since then, they have performed on television programmes including The Jennifer Hudson Show and Later… with Jools Holland. Recent projects include a collaboration with The Blessed Madonna on Shades of Love and a guest spot on Jennifer Hudson’s Christmas album, The Gift of Love.
‘Omunye’ arrives as the group continues work on their upcoming EP while expanding their international reach.
