Created in collaboration with RADA Unearthed, ‘Joina’ is a powerful call for unity and collective responsibility. The song encourages awareness around substance addiction while offering comfort and healing to those affected by abuse. Rooted in themes of resilience, harmony and restoration, the track reminds listeners that building a prosperous society begins with compassion, action and caring for one another.
Today, iSandi’s music sits at the intersection of storytelling and purpose. Her sound blends Afro-experimental textures with Western harmonic language, creating compositions that encourage reflection, emotional clarity and cross-cultural connection.
Hi! Could you introduce yourself, your genre, and your musical influences?
“I am commonly known as Zoë, born Nokuzola Makola and I perform under the stage name iSandi, which means “sound” in isiXhosa. I was born and raised in the Eastern Cape, where my musical journey began in high school through learning piano and recorder. My music falls under world music and Afro-folk, combined with Western elements. This fusion is largely influenced by my formal training in classical music at the University of Pretoria. I am deeply influenced by Xhosa folk traditions, which is why I sing in isi Xhosa. While I primarily sing in isiXhosa, the emotional and musical language of my work resonates across diverse audiences.”
What inspired you to start making music and what inspires you to keep going?
“My journey with music began during my school years, where I was first introduced to instruments like the piano and recorder. What truly inspired me, though, was my exposure to performances, so seeing music come to life in that way sparked something in me and led me to start composing and writing songs. During my time as a full-time teacher, I found myself creating a wide range of music for different purposes and genres, which helped me grow both creatively and technically. It was during the COVID-19 lockdown, however, that I made a bold decision to pursue music beyond teaching, with the intention of sharing my work more widely. This ultimately led to the release of my first EP, Intyatyambo. My passion for music is what keeps me going and being aware of the impact music has on people. I’m quite an observant person and I try to live intentionally. Music becomes a space where I can process what I see and experience and turn it into something meaningful. That sense of intention gives me clarity and focus and that is what keeps me moving my craft forward.”
Where do you, in general, get inspiration for your music and song-writing?
“Most of my inspiration comes from life itself, personal experiences, emotions and observing my immediate surroundings or the world around me. I’m also deeply inspired by nature and themes of reflection and healing. Growing up in the Eastern Cape and being rooted in Xhosa culture plays a big role in shaping my sound and I often draw from those musical and storytelling traditions when creating. For example the Xhosa Chant “from my first EP is inspired by traditional ditty-style singing, which is simple, repetitive and rhythmically connected to dances like ukutyityimba, known for its shoulder movement and contrasting foot work trance-like quality. The chant later shifts into a more layered vocal line, using rich isiXhosa diction to reflect the depth and nuance of Xhosa storytelling traditions. The overall sound carries a subtle oriental feel influenced by the chant.”
Who would you like to work with in the near future and where would you like to perform in the next three years?
“I would love to collaborate with artists and producers who are passionate about storytelling and creative experimental ideas in music, especially those who blend traditional and contemporary sounds and refine my style while releasing more music. I’m open to both local and international collaborations that align with my artistic vision. In the next three years, I hope to perform on stages that celebrate diverse cultures, both within South Africa and internationally. I intend to also have some of my works for iSandi Ambient Soundscapes music be performed by a live orchestra as well as gaining some skills that are needed in the industry.”
Which musical achievements are you most proud of?
“I am especially proud of being able to release my own original music and build a growing audience around it. Having my work supported by an organisation like RADA that uplifts both artists and communities is something I deeply value. Their humanitarian work in vulnerable communities is inspiring. Each release feels like a milestone, particularly when it resonates with listeners and becomes part of their personal journeys. And finally, I’m proud to have been given opportunities to perform at live concerts hosted by the Nirox Foundation, a multidisciplinary platform that brings together music, visual art and nature.”
What do you hope to achieve by releasing music with followers old and new?
“My hope is to create music that connects, music that feels personal yet universal. For long-time listeners, I want to continue growing with them and offering deeper, more refined work. For new listeners, I hope my music becomes a space of discovery and appreciation and should give it a chance. Ultimately, I want my music to leave a lasting emotional impact.”
What are your plans for the new year and what are some of your goals and dreams?
“I have exciting plans for this year – one of them is my second EP release somewhere after July and expanding my creative projects. Improving my social media presence (Having a full time job, can limit your time on social media) and continue to build my brand through mainstream media. I also want to grow my audience and strengthen my presence across platforms. One of my biggest dreams is to establish myself as an artist whose music transcends borders while still staying true to my roots. I also hope to explore more live performances and collaborations.”
Aside from music, what are some of your hobbies and interests, we’d love to know more about you as a person!
“Outside of music, I really enjoy being active and connected to nature. I’m a long-distance runner, a yoga enthusiast and I love off-road cycling. I’m also passionate about writing and I’ve published children’s books and educational content, especially in music pedagogy, especially based on my music teaching personal experiences. Creativity doesn’t end with music for me, I also enjoy painting with oil and acrylics on canvas. At the same time, I value quiet, reflective moments and journaling, which help me live as intentionally as possible. Focus and daily gratitude not only help me stay grounded and meet my daily goals, but also rejuvenate my mind within a busy schedule, especially as a family-oriented person. I’m deeply interested in personal growth and how creativity connects with learning and development.”
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