Former Idols SA singer Darlene Swartz, stage name Dinky Kunene, has finalised her project, almost a year after never-ending back and forth with distribution company Empire Africa.

LONG WAIT

After a year-long wait and challenges, dynamic and soulful Amapiano singer Dinky Kunene is counting down just hours to the release of her project, Diamante. "Diamonds should be handled with care because they are precious and the process it takes is intricate. That is how this process of creating this project was for me, very delicate,' she told ZiMoja. "It's been a long year of hard work, conflict but also the goal was to release great music and we have achieved that.'

ZiMoja recently reported that she had a legal battle with company, Empire Africa who were said to have delayed the release of her music. Her management confirmed that the dispute had been settled. "We are good, and the music is coming out today. She features Murumba Pitch, Thakzin, Unlimited Soul, Msongi, Kush Mthakathi and Mhawu Keys.'

NOTHING TO SOMETHING

Being a former Idol, Dinky said the transition from leaving a massive competition to being independent has come with its challenges. "It was a very abrupt transition. I went from having every resource under the sun to having nothing. I am blessed to have come as far as I have but I think it's safe to say I am still finding myself as an independent artist,' she added.' But I believe this project will create some opportunities and open new doors.'