Benjamin Jephta's 'Homecoming Revisited': a 10-year journey of jazz evolution

Benjamin Jephta, the award-winning South African jazz bassist and composer, has released “Homecoming Revisited”, a 10-year celebration of his 2015 debut album “Homecoming”.

The new project reflects a decade of growth in artistry, collaboration and community, offering reimagined versions of the music that introduced him to audiences a decade ago.

“This album is a celebration of my journey and growth as an artist,” Jephta said.

“It is as much about personal development as it is about the community of musicians who have supported and influenced me over the years.”

A community of collaborators

Collaboration drives the album. Jephta joked that it has “more features than an amapiano album,” a lighthearted way of describing the many musicians who appear on the project.

Veteran trumpeter Marcus Wyatt contributes, as do younger artists such as Kujenga, saxophonist Linda Sikhakhane and trumpeter Ndabo Zulu. Each brings a distinctive voice and energy.

“Collaborating with so many talented musicians on this album has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” Jephta said. 

“Each artist brought something special to the project. It has been a beautiful reminder of the power of community in music.”

Lead single: “Still I Rise (Part 1)”

Earlier this month, Jephta released the lead single, “Still I Rise (Part 1)”, inspired by Maya Angelou’s celebrated poem.

The track blends the rhythmic drive of Afrobeats with the textures of South African jazz. Kujenga provides vocals alongside Zulu on trumpet, Sikhakhane on saxophone and Leagan Breda on percussion. The result is a sound that honours heritage while embracing contemporary influences.

“The piece for me is about resilience - the refusal to stay down despite the challenges life or society might throw at you,” Jephta explained.

“Musically, I wanted to channel that sense of defiance but also hope, blending Afrobeats and South African jazz into something uplifting. At its core, it’s a reminder that rising again is part of our collective story.”

He added that the track represents the collective spirit of the South African jazz community.

“There are over 30 musicians who contributed to ‘Still I Rise (Part 1)’ and to the wider ‘Homecoming Revisited' project. Everyone brought their own voice and energy, and together it created something far bigger than any one contribution. That sense of community is what gives the track its power and joy.”

Revisiting and evolving

Jephta views “Homecoming Revisited" as both a celebration and an evolution of his debut.

“The original ‘Homecoming’ album was my debut, the point where I started carving out my voice,” he said.

“‘Homecoming Revisited’ is both a celebration of that milestone and an evolution. I’m reimagining the music with fresh arrangements, new collaborators and influences from the past decade of my journey."

"Sonically, it’s broader - touching Afrobeats, Amapiano grooves and South African jazz traditions - but with a deeper maturity in the writing and production.”

The idea of the album title carries a layered meaning for him.

“It has always been about returning to self-to roots, identity and community. At this stage, it’s also about honouring where I come from while embracing how far I’ve travelled musically and personally.

"It’s not just nostalgia, but a recognition of how ‘home’ continues to shape and ground me, no matter where I go.”

Lessons from a decade

This release also marks a personal milestone: ten years in the professional music world. Jephta reflected on the journey.

“There have been so many defining moments  - from touring internationally to collaborating with incredible musicians, and even just being able to sustain myself through music. The biggest lessons? Talent is only part of the equation. Integrity, consistency and community matter just as much."

"And perhaps the most humbling lesson: success is not always the big milestones - sometimes it’s being able to keep creating and providing for your family through your art.”

For Jephta, the past decade has been about both recognition and personal grounding. He has performed with top musicians and led his own ensembles, but his concept of success has shifted.

“Early on, success felt tied to big moments - awards, recognition, international gigs. Now, I see it more in terms of longevity and authenticity."

"Being able to create work that resonates, to collaborate meaningfully and to contribute to my community feels like a more sustainable and fulfilling vision of success. It’s about building something that lasts rather than chasing quick wins.”

Shaping South African jazz

South African jazz is known for honouring tradition while constantly evolving. Jephta sees his own work in that continuum.

“I see myself as both a student of the tradition and someone trying to push its boundaries,” he said.

“South African jazz has such a rich lineage, and my responsibility is to honour that while also experimenting with new sounds and influences.

"Whether it is through integrating popular styles like Afrobeats and Amapiano or telling stories about our identities, my role is to contribute to the evolution without losing the roots.”

Taking the music to the stage

Jephta plans to bring the spirit of “Homecoming Revisited” to live audiences with performances that showcase the collaborative energy behind the album.

“Fans can expect a celebration,” he said. “Not just of my own journey, but of the South African jazz community. It will be big, collaborative and full of energy - featuring many of the musicians who have shaped my story."

"Expect moments of nostalgia, as well as new directions and surprises. Most of all, expect to feel the spirit of homecoming in real time - a gathering of sounds, people and stories.”

3 reasons to listen to “Homecoming Revisited”

• Growth and collaboration - Jephta revisits his debut with over 30 collaborators, celebrating both personal and community evolution.
• Tradition meets innovation - South African jazz blends with Afrobeats and Amapiano for a fresh, contemporary sound.
• Resilience and reflection - Tracks like “Still I Rise (Part 1)” explore perseverance, hope and the meaning of home.