Naledi Aphiwe Unpacks How “Mina Nawe” Came About

Singer and songwriter Naledi Aphiwe recently opened up about the creation of one of her hit tracks “Mina Nawe.” The young star, who rose to prominence for her soulful vocals and gospel-inspired sound, shared how the song came together and what inspired its celebratory tone.

Released earlier this year alongside Goon Flavour and Master KG, “Mina Nawe” quickly gained attention for its vibrant rhythm and joyful message, marking a new sound for the artist known for emotional, faith-rooted music.

Speaking on The Unplug, Naledi explained how the idea for the song began the moment she heard the instrumental in studio. “Usually, I know that artists often write about things from their personal experiences or things they desire at that time,” she said, reflecting on her creative process.

She went on to describe how the unfamiliar sound of the beat sparked something new in her approach. “When I heard the beat at studio, that’s when I created something different because that sound is not my usual sound, it was my first time being exposed to it,” she shared.

Known for her heartfelt tracks, Naledi admitted that the beat inspired a different kind of story. Instead of writing another worship-inspired song, she decided to take a lighter and more festive direction. “I tried to make this song about wedding celebration because the beat matched that,” she said. “I wasn’t gonna thank God on that beat,” she added, referring to her earlier single “Ngibonga uNkulunkulu.”

The result was a love-themed anthem that quickly became a fan favorite. “Mina Nawe” blends amapiano grooves with soulful vocals, creating a sound that resonates both on dance floors and at wedding receptions. The song’s title, meaning “Me and You” in isiZulu, emphasizes unity and celebration, themes that have made it a popular choice for couples and festive events.

Since its release, the track has received widespread airplay across South African radio stations and social media platforms, solidifying Naledi’s versatility as an artist who can bridge genres while maintaining her authenticity.

Through “Mina Nawe,” Naledi Aphiwe showcased her ability to evolve musically without losing the sincerity that defines her artistry, proving that even outside her comfort zone, she continues to create music that connects deeply with listeners.