Judith Sefuma is celebrating the 25th anniversary of her iconic debut album, 'A Cry, A Smile, A Dance,' by releasing the EP 'Iya Iyo' (Remixes). This collection includes the original recording of the song alongside three new interpretations from South African producers Stixx, Shazmicsoul, and C-Blak.
Twenty-five years have passed since Judith Sefuma introduced herself to the South African audience with her debut album. One of the most enduring tracks from this album is getting a new life through this EP.
The singer, who works in jazz and afro-soul genres, believes that this project goes beyond simply updating an old track with a new beat. It reflects music's ability to move between different generations, genres, and listeners while retaining the emotional depth that made it special initially.
The composition 'Iya Iyo' has remained a constant element in Sefuma's live performances for the past 25 years. She previously noted that 'Iya Iyo' was not the song she expected to receive such attention, but since its release, she has never omitted it from her repertoire over these 25 years because it has always been there.'
Reasons why Judith Sefuma returned to the song 'Iya Iyo'
The release of the new EP coincides with the 25th anniversary of the album 'A Cry, A Smile, A Dance.' Sefuma recalls the album, which became an important part of the soundtrack for many South Africans who grew up in the early 2000s. The album, released in October 2001, featured songs such as 'Mmangwane,' 'Le Tshephile Mang,' 'A Cry, A Smile, A Dance,' and 'I Remember,' with 'Iya Iyo' gaining its own significance.
Sefuma believes that the longevity of this song is closely linked to the overall success of the album. She explained that because the entire album 'A Cry, A Smile, A Dance' was very well received, people continue to listen to it today, not just one song.
Listening to the new versions allowed her to hear her music through the eyes of a younger generation. She noted that the way they combined the original song with a modern sound, creating something new, is 'the most beautiful evolution of Iya Iyo. Three very different and beautiful remixes.'
This evolution is particularly important because the participating producers themselves grew up listening to this song. For Stixx, 'Iya Iyo' is associated with childhood memories of listening to Sefuma's music at home, as 'this album was played every time' because Judith was his mother's favorite artist. Being a big fan of jazz, he decided to combine elements of the song with Amapiano rhythms.
Shazmicsoul also recalled discovering the song while studying, around 2004, and admitted that 'Iya Iyo' was his favorite song carrying beautiful memories. He was drawn to the mastery of the original recording, including the chord progression and guitar improvisation, and he aimed to tell the 'urban story of Shazmicsoul' of this classic track, rather than just reproducing the original.
C-Blak, a veteran of house production and founder of the label, had a similar approach: he sought to respect the history of the track while presenting it to a new audience. He stated that when remixing a classic piece, he must add his own touch so that young listeners understand what this kind of sound is. For him, Sefuma herself was the starting point, and he began working with the vocals.
Sefuma sees these remixes as a reminder that music has no expiration date. She urges young artists to freely reinterpret old works while respecting the essence of the original. She emphasized the need to provide young performers with creative space, as was done with 'Iya Iyo.'
This willingness to evolve is also reflected in Sefuma's view of her own career. She believes it allows her to remain relevant to the modern generation and connect herself with various genres significant to the development of times. Sefuma categorically rejects the idea of dividing music into 'old' and 'new,' asserting that there are only 'beautiful, friendly songs that everyone can understand.'
What awaits Judith Sefuma next
Although the EP 'Iya Iyo' (Remixes) brings a new chapter to one of her favorite songs, Sefuma is already looking ahead. In response to questions about plans after the remix project, she announced that they are currently working on recording a gospel concert.
For an artist who has watched her music travel from parents' speakers to children's playlists over 25 years, the 'Iya Iyo' remix project represents another stage of this journey, where the past and present can coexist in one song.