Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africa’s multi-platinum, award-winning songstress and revered Queen of Afro Jazz, Judith Sephuma, makes her long-awaited return with the release of her brand-new studio album, When Winter Fades. The 8-track Afro Jazz masterpiece, recorded live in studio with her full band, will be released on Friday, 31 October 2025 across all digital platforms, accompanied by the release of its title track single, When Winter Fades.
This marks Judith’s first studio project in five years since her acclaimed 2019 album Power of Dreams. Produced by Job Thako and mixed and mastered at Audio Mix, When Winter Fades is a deeply personal body of work that reflects the soulful warmth, emotional honesty, and musical sophistication that have defined Judith’s illustrious career.
Listen to the entire album here: https://vmgafrica.lnk.to/WHENWINTERFADESAr
The album rollout began earlier this month with the release of Back To Love on 3 October 2025, a lead single that has already captured the hearts of fans and radio listeners alike. “Choosing a lead single was incredibly difficult because every track on this album is special,” Judith shares. “Back To Love was chosen because it reminds me why I started making music — love has always been at the core of everything I do. Music is my first love, and this song brings me back to that truth.”
Other standout tracks include Mokete, a joyous anthem celebrating unity and life’s special moments, Call My Name, a tender, soulful ballad that transforms into a powerful sing-along, and Makeba, a moving tribute to the legendary Mama Miriam Makeba. The latter honors one of Judith’s greatest inspirations, alongside Mama Letta Mbulu and Sibongile Khumalo, whose influence continues to shape her artistry.
Reflecting on the album’s title, Judith explains, “We must always remember that seasons change. Life is not static — each season teaches us lessons about joy, renewal, and rest. The rhythm of the seasons mirrors the rhythm of life itself.”
When Winter Fades captures Judith Sephuma in her purest artistic form — thoughtful, inspired, and unafraid to evolve. It’s an album that invites listeners to pause, reflect, and rediscover the warmth that follows every winter. With her signature grace and musical depth, Judith reminds us once again why her voice remains one of the most treasured in South African music.
Watch the official music video ‘When Winter Fades’ here: https://youtu.be/Wo552SpqRo8
The album is released under Lalomba Music and distributed by Virgin Music Group South Africa.
Stay connected with Judith Sephuma on social media: @JudithSephuma