Liro Sotomela is set to release his deeply personal new single “Buddy” on 22 May, featuring Madd Locco and produced by “the kid from tomorro,” also known as 1ix6een. Rooted in raw emotion and reflection, the hip-hop track explores themes of betrayal, fake friendships, survival, and spiritual protection, offering listeners an honest look into the realities of navigating life while holding onto loyalty and self-belief.
On “Buddy,” Liro Sotomela opens up about the struggles of his upbringing and the experiences that shaped him into the artist he is today. His storytelling carries the weight of pain, resilience, and growth, while Madd Locco adds a sharp and unapologetic perspective on avoiding disloyal people and surviving within today’s harsh realities. Together, the two artists create a record that feels both vulnerable and powerful, balancing introspection with hard-hitting truths.
Music became a defining outlet for Liro around 2016, when he first began writing as a way to process his thoughts and emotions. After some of his private writings were exposed, he turned to freestyling as a more personal and protected form of expression. Through difficult moments in life, music evolved into more than just a passion — it became therapy, identity, and a source of strength.
With “Buddy,” Liro Sotomela continues to carve out a space for authentic storytelling in South African hip-hop, delivering music that speaks to pain, loyalty, healing, and the journey of overcoming life’s obstacles.