New single 'Uyirin Oli' blends Tamil and African sounds
Durban vocalist Yovani Naidoo and DJE, known as Elvis Gangiah, are set to captivate music lovers with their new single, Uyirin Oli.
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VETERAN Durban-based DJ, producer, and recording studio manager DJE, known as Elvis Gangiah, is set to captivate music lovers with his new single, Uyirin Oli, featuring the melodic vocals of Yovani Naidoo.
Uyirin Oli, translated loosely as "The Light of the Soul," is an emotive Afro-house production that promises to resonate deeply with listeners, transcending cultural boundaries and celebrating heritage with its melodic electronic textures, Tamil lyrical expression and rich African rhythmic sensibilities.
The release signifies a remarkable cultural milestone, being the first Tamil South African track purposefully conceived as a dance music project. Adding to its innovative edge, official club remixes are also planned as a core aspect of its release strategy.
The track will be released through Bhavani Entertainment and will be available on digital platforms from January 23.
In addition to the original release, Uyirin Oli is being positioned as a multi-version dance project, with remix interpretations scheduled from a select group of respected South African DJs and producers.
Gangiah says Naidoo's performance brings warmth and emotional depth to the record.
"Her delivery anchors the song’s reflective message while allowing it to translate seamlessly into contemporary dance music spaces.
“Uyirin Oli is deeply personal. It’s about heritage, emotion, and continuity. But it’s also meant to live on the dance floor. Planning the remix journey from the start was intentional, it’s how this song is meant to travel,” said Gangiah.
Naidoo, 25, from Umhlanga, said through the song listeners will embrace their background and heritage.
"We did an amazing job blending Tamil and English lyrics with African beats and carnatic elements. It is a vibrant fusion and I believe it will appeal to young and old and propagate the Tamil language and culture.
"It showcases South Africa embracing different cultures. Uyirin Oli is a unique piece, transcends boundaries and gives a new meaning to the Tamil language," said Naidoo.
She said it was her first time collaborating with a local DJ and described Gangiah as amazing and accomplished.
With a career spanning more than three decades, DJE, is the manager and senior engineer at the recording studios within Durban’s Playhouse Theatre complex. He is regarded as one of South Africa’s most respected and versatile electronic music figures.
He has produced remixes for Bollywood record labels, exporting South African house music to international audiences while maintaining strong cultural authenticity.
His work has seen him perform and collaborate across Southern Africa, India, and beyond.