Bokani Dyer will release his new album, Traditions, on 1 October 2026. The album asks a simple question: what happens when traditions move into a new time and place?
Dyer reworks music that has shaped his sound. He also brings these songs into conversation with new voices and ideas. The result is an album that connects South African musical traditions with the present.
A Journey Through Musical Heritage
Dyer’s musical lineage plays an important role on Traditions. His father, acclaimed jazz musician Steve Dyer, introduced him to a wide range of music and traditions. His work also taught Bokani about the values of Ubuntu.
Bokani now carries this influence into his own work. Through Traditions, he pays tribute to the musicians who came before him. At the same time, he explores where this music can go next.
The album’s first offering, “Thembisa”, is one example. Andile Yenana first recorded the composition on his debut album, We Used To Dance. Bokani’s version features young vocalist Phoebe Mgxaji. Her voice brings a new perspective to the song.
Reimagining “Inxembulo”
Another key track is “African Piano Inxembulo (The Ugly One)”. The song draws from the traditional Xhosa folk song “Inxembulo”.
uHadi player Nofinishi Dywili and the Ngqoko Women’s Ensemble famously recorded the song. It later became a struggle song during apartheid.
Bokani brings “Inxembulo” into a new setting with piano, bass, flute and drums. The result creates a conversation between different generations and musical traditions.
“It was important for me to not only honour the work of those who came before us, but also to shed light on younger musicians who are contributing to where this music goes next.” – Bokani Dyer
Continuing the Tradition
Across Traditions, Dyer explores jazz, soul, African rhythm and contemporary sounds. The album honours South African musical heritage while giving these traditions room to evolve.
“Traditions” is not about reinventing the wheel. Instead, it asks what can happen when we reimagine the music we inherit.
Traditions will be released on 1 October 2026 and will be available on all major streaming platforms.
Pre-save Bokani Dyer Trio – Traditions here.
