JOBURG, GET READY TO VIBE! South Africa’s rising songstress Lusanda is taking her place at the top of the local music scene after officially being named Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Ambassador of the Month.

The massive career milestone arrives alongside the release of her brand-new single, “Lunchbox,“ dropping on all major streaming platforms this Friday, 11 September 2026.

Completing the “By The Time I Wake Up” Maxi-Single

The new track “Lunchbox” serves as the final piece to her acclaimed 3-track body of work, By The Time I Wake Up. The project kicked off with the hit single “Progress” before following up with the title track, which quickly became a crowd favorite among local soul and R&B lovers.

Speaking on the heart behind her music, Lusanda made it clear that keeping it real is her main focus:

“I want people to feel something when they hear my voice,” says Lusanda. “I write from things I’ve actually been through, and if my music helps someone feel a little less alone, or helps them heal from something, that’s the whole point for me.”

A Full-Circle Moment with Spotify EQUAL

For Lusanda, receiving the Spotify EQUAL Africa endorsement isn’t just an award — it’s a continuation of a journey that helped build her career. The global initiative, which pours major resources into boosting women creators across the continent, previously backed her first headline gig right here in Joburg as well as her exclusive Spotify Singles recording session.

“EQUAL is the reason I got to play my first major show here in Johannesburg,” Lusanda shared. “Being part of a programme that actually puts its resources behind women artists has meant everything.”

Major Collaborations & Braamfontein Listening Party

Lusanda’s steady climb to stardom has seen her link up with top-tier talent both locally and internationally. Her new work features production by Anoop D’Souza (known for his work with stars like Tems, Summer Walker, Syd, and Asake) after the duo connected in Ghana. Fans can also look forward to current and upcoming features alongside heavyweights like Nasty C, Tellaman, Clxrity, and Dwson.

Want to hear the stories behind the music in person?

Joburg fans can catch Lusanda live at an intimate Track by Track listening session at &Friends / Mamakashaka in Braamfontein on Thursday, 17 September. She will be breaking down the full maxi-single in her own words, with special guest appearances and surprises planned for the night.

Release & Streaming Details

• Single Release: “Lunchbox”
• Maxi-Single: By The Time I Wake Up (3 tracks: “Progress”, “By The Time I Wake Up”, “Lunchbox”)
• Release Date: Friday, 11 September 2026
• Availability: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and all major digital streaming platforms.