Sfarzo Rtee Goes to War with New Album Empini, a Bold Statement of Resilience, Ambition and Musical Evolution

The Amapiano producer returns with a powerful new chapter, featuring Mashudu, De Rose, Portia KM, Baby S.O.N and more.

Johannesburg, South Africa – 15 October 2026 | South African Amapiano producer and DJ Sfarzo Rtee steps into a new era with the release of his highly anticipated album, EMPINI. A declaration of resilience, ambition and unwavering determination, the project finds Sfarzo embracing the battles that come with growth, both personally and professionally, while reaffirming his place among Amapiano's most exciting musical innovators.

Meaning "at war" or "in battle" in isiZulu, EMPINI speaks to the realities of an artist navigating an increasingly competitive industry, where every milestone brings new expectations and every victory demands another level of commitment. For Sfarzo, the battle is not simply about recognition, but about remaining true to his musical identity while continuing to evolve, challenge himself and build a lasting legacy.

The album follows his acclaimed 2025 project, Rethabile, a deeply personal offering that explored love, heartbreak and healing through soulful melodies and intricate production. The project debuted at number one on Apple Music, marking a significant milestone in his career and reinforcing his growing influence within the genre. 

Where Rethabile invited listeners into his emotional world, EMPINI arrives with a renewed sense of purpose, capturing an artist who understands what it takes to survive, succeed and remain relevant in an ever-evolving musical landscape.

Hailing from Polokwane, Limpopo, and having developed his musical identity in Pretoria, Sfarzo has spent years establishing himself as a distinctive voice within Amapiano's Sgija movement. His catalogue, including the House of Sgija series and The New Testament, reflects an artist whose creative instincts have consistently pushed beyond conventional production. His work alongside the likes of Kelvin Momo, Josiah De Disciple and DBN Gogo has further cemented his reputation as a producer with both technical precision and an unmistakable sonic identity. 

On EMPINI, that musical foundation remains firmly intact. Driven by Sfarzo's signature approach to rhythm, melody and layered production, the album moves between soulful introspection and infectious dancefloor energy. The project brings together an impressive selection of collaborators, including Jinger Stone, Mashudu, De Rose, Portia KM, Tracy, Baby S.O.N, Mkeyz and Sipho Magudulela, whose contributions add emotional depth, character and texture to the album's overarching narrative.

Leading the release is the infectious focus track, "Ndimi Ndimi" featuring De Rose and Portia KM, a playful, high-energy Amapiano anthem that brings romance straight to the dancefloor. Built around the excitement of wanting to be someone's favourite person, the track balances flirtatious storytelling with an irresistible groove, capturing the carefree spirit and communal joy that have made Amapiano a cultural force.

The song has already begun building considerable momentum ahead of its official release, with Sfarzo's TikTok teasers surpassing 600,000 views and 100,000 likes. The early response points to a growing appetite for the record, positioning "Ndimi Ndimi" as a standout moment in the EMPINI campaign and demonstrating Sfarzo's ability to connect with audiences beyond traditional music platforms.

EMPINI is a reflection of the distance travelled and the determination required to keep moving forward. It celebrates the victories without overlooking the sacrifices, embracing the reality that artistic growth is rarely a straightforward journey. Through every rhythm, collaboration and musical decision, Sfarzo presents an artist increasingly confident in his abilities and unafraid of the challenges ahead.

For Sfarzo Rtee, EMPINI is not a declaration of war against his peers. It is a declaration of intent. The sound of an artist who has fought to find his voice, earned his place and is prepared to defend everything he has built.