Maleh celebrates a full circle moment with historic theatre performance of ‘Dithapelo’

“‘Dithapelo’ is one of the most personal albums that I’ve ever created,” said acclaimed Lesotho-born singer and songwriter Maleh.

“It was shaped by a decade of life-changing experiences, from heartbreak and becoming a single mother to finding love again, walking through the pain of three miscarriages and ultimately encountering God’s mercy and faithfulness,” she said, reflecting on the journey behind her new body of work. 

“Performing at the Market Theatre feels incredibly special to me. It’s a venue that I grew up admiring, one I always dreamed of performing in someday."

"To now be launching one of my most personal and important bodies of work in a space that carries so much history and meaning feels like a full circle moment in my journey.” 

In March, Maleh will bring “Dithapelo” to life in a once-off live concert at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre, marking both a personal and professional milestone.

The performance represents more than the debut of a new album. It stands as a declaration of faith, resilience and artistic purpose from an artist who has spent years shaping her voice and message.

Maleh described the album as a deeply spiritual offering.

“Much of the album was written during my pregnancy as I waited for my miracle baby. Through both the pain and the blessings, I was drawn into deeper prayer and intimacy with God. The songs have been written from the bottom of my heart, and this body of work is one I feel most proud of,” she said.

“This album is really an invitation to worship and to pause, reflect and reconnect with God in a deeper way, something that I feel we all need in this season.”  

Rooted in her Basotho heritage, Maleh has built a career defined by emotional honesty and cultural identity. Her sound blends Afro-soul, Afro-pop and gospel influences, anchored by storytelling that speaks to both personal and collective experiences.

With “Dithapelo”, she leans further into that authenticity, allowing faith and heritage to guide both the music and its live expression.

“On stage, I’m really excited to lean more into my Basotho roots and bring some of those Basotho elements into the performance,” she explained.

“African culture is so rich and expressive, and the more I explore my own heritage, the more inspired I become. Blending that with my Christian faith and the message of the gospel feels very authentic to who I am.”

The live performance promises to traverse various emotional and spiritual landscapes, reflecting the album's own layered nature.

“The concert will definitely move between moments of worship, emotion and celebration. I'm hoping to create a live experience that’s heartfelt, engaging and deeply meaningful,” Maleh said.

“This album is an offering. I wanted to invite people into my personal conversations with my Maker, the Most High God, my prayers set to music.”