Rēfilwe makes her music debut with new single Home

Multi-talented South African artist Refilwe Maitisa, known as Rēfilwe, has released her debut single Home.

The song is a vibrant blend of elements of Pop, RnB and Marabi music. “I love the sound of Marabi, an old South African genre, specifically the guitar, which inspired my single. It’s the old meets the current/new vibe. So, I’ve dubbed the sound of Home nurabi”, said Rēfilwe.

As a singer-songwriter, Rēfilwe wanted to create a song that reflects her life experience. Describing her approach to penning down Home, she said: “I decided to write about the concept of home.

Having travelled and studied outside South Africa, I wanted to make a song that captures what was on my mind and in my heart and communicated it in a way that someone can relate to and enjoy”.

Home’s lyrics jogs the mind about what home really is, raising the multifaceted aspect of the concept of home – wondering if it’s a place, a feeling or a space.

Rēfilwe holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from New York University’s (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts, graduating top of her class, and an Associate Degree from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles.

Her academic achievements include matriculating with Six Distinctions in Johannesburg, the Drama Banner Bearer Award (top student in academics and leadership), Dean’s List, Outstanding Achievement in Studio Award (for acting), and University Honors Scholar distinction at NYU. She was also selected as the NYU Tisch Drama student representative to deliver a speech at the graduation.

Her artistic experience spans theatre, film and runway: she performed in the award-winning musical Humanity’s Child, which debuted at the New York Theatre Festival and later ran Off-Broadway at The Players Theatre.

She has appeared in international acting and vocal showcases and in short films screened at global festivals. In fashion, she debuted at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and later walked for David Tlale’s 20-year celebration runway showcase.

Home is now available on streaming platforms.