Thuli Phongolo has once again proven that she’s not afraid to evolve and explore new paths in her career. Ever since her acting debut in 2012, the 31-year-old star has been a force to be reckoned with — from dominating TV screens to taking over the decks as one of Mzansi’s top female DJs. Now, she’s taking things a step further by releasing her debut single, Hai Suka, featuring Kay Invictus, Leandra Vert, and Nia Pearl.

After adopting the persona of DJ Thuli P in 2017, Phongolo’s love for music has continued to grow. Speaking to Drum, she opened up about how she naturally transitioned from acting to making her own music.

“I’ve always expressed myself through different forms of art like acting, deejaying, and fashion, but music has always been the heartbeat of everything I do,” Phongolo shared. “Being behind the decks taught me how people respond to sound. Naturally, I felt the pull to create something that represented my story, my emotions, and my rhythm. So, this single is me stepping into that truth, not just playing other people’s music, but finally sharing my own.”

The Hai Suka hitmaker explained that her decision to fully step into music wasn’t instant. It was something that developed over time as she grew to understand the healing and expressive power of music. “It was a blessing working with Kay Invictus, Nia Pearl, and Leandra Vert. They understand texture and space so well that they effortlessly gave my emotions shape,” she said.

Phongolo admitted that while creating her new project came with challenges, she never lost sight of her purpose. “It started with a feeling. I wanted to relay a story of owning your power, your being, and success as a woman in a sassy, vibrant, yet soulful way,” she explained.

Currently, Thuli is working on her debut EP titled AVANA under her own record label. On Instagram, she reflected on her journey from a teenage dreamer to a multifaceted artist. “I stepped into the entertainment industry at fifteen full of passion, a hunger to learn and a willingness to grow,” she wrote.

In 2017, Thuli made a life-changing decision — she stepped into the world of DJing. “That decision changed my life,” she admitted. “It has sustained me creatively and professionally and it reaffirmed my belief that reinvention is a strength, not a risk especially through all the public trials and tribulations.”