South African artist Lusanda has officially been appointed as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Ambassador of the Month.
This notable announcement coincides with the eagerly awaited launch of her latest single, “Lunchbox,” which will be released this Friday, 11 September 2026.
This new song is the concluding piece of her three-track maxi-single, By The Time I Wake Up. The project begins with her earlier release, “Progress,” then shifts into the popular title track, and wraps up with “Lunchbox.”
At the heart of Lusanda’s craft lies a profound connection and sincere expression.
“I want people to feel something when they hear my voice,” Lusanda expresses. “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.”
Her role as an EQUAL Africa ambassador represents a significant milestone in Lusanda’s journey. Spotify’s EQUAL initiative, which seeks to promote fairness for women in the music sector, has played a crucial role in her most important achievements.
“EQUAL is the reason I got to play my first major show here in Johannesburg,” Lusanda recalls. “Being part of a programme that actually invests resources in women artists has meant everything for me.”
In addition to supporting her debut major headline show in Johannesburg, the programme was vital in the production of her exclusive Spotify Singles session.
Lusanda’s swift rise within the music industry is supported by significant collaborations.
The title track, “By The Time I Wake Up,” was co-written in South Africa with the renowned producer Anoop D’Souza—who has collaborated with global stars such as Tems, Summer Walker, Syd, and Asake—after they first met in Ghana.
Listeners can also anticipate more of Lusanda on the airwaves shortly, as she has a series of recent and forthcoming featured tracks with prominent names like Nasty C & Tellaman, Clxrity, and Dwson.
In celebration of the release, Lusanda will conduct a cozy, Track-by-Track listening event at Mamakashaka in Braamfontein on Thursday, 17 September 2026.
This gathering promises to guide the audience through the entire maxi-single in her own narrative, along with exclusive surprises for those attending.
“Lunchbox” and the full “By The Time I Wake Up” maxi-single will be accessible on all major streaming platforms starting Friday, 11 September 2026.
