After making waves with his amapiano-infused hit Asphuzeni three years ago, rising musician Masilo Rathokolo from Tshikota, just outside Louis Trichardt, is back with a brand-new track. Better known as BYG, the 18-year-old released Baby Mama on 3 June.
The song features Afro-soul and pop artists Una Rine and Teerage, and is already gaining attention for its catchy rhythm and heartfelt message. In Baby Mama, BYG pays tribute to the strength, resilience and loyalty of women, especially young mothers who hold their families together despite life's many challenges.
BYG said the inspiration for the track had come from observing the struggles faced by women in his community. "I was inspired to write Baby Mama after seeing how much baby mamas and other loving women go through every day. They deal with so much, yet they still give love, stay loyal, and keep things going," he said. "This song honours and respects all the women who go through so much but still give love and stay strong. Baby Mama is not about one person – it's a reflection of many women's stories."
The lyrics explore themes of love, appreciation and commitment. Rather than romanticising hardship, BYG uses Baby Mama to acknowledge the emotional and physical labour women pour into their families and relationships.
"It's a thank you to those who support and stay loyal, even when things aren't easy. I want my fans to remember the message of love, respect and appreciation for women – especially those who give their all, whether they're baby mamas, girlfriends or wives," he added.
"This is just the beginning as I'm working on more music that speaks to what people live through. I want to grow, keep improving, and continue telling real stories through my songs," he said.