The post Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have Me’ With Heartfelt Reflection appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have Me’ With Heartfelt Reflection. South African rapper Touchline took a moment to celebrate one of the most cherished songs in his catalogue, marking five years since the release of I’ll Always Have Me with a heartfelt yet understated reflection.
Sharing the milestone on Instagram on Wednesday, the lyricist posted a clip of the song with the caption, “Didn’t realise I’ll Always Have Me turned 5 years old today.” The simple message struck a chord with fans who have embraced the record as one of the defining tracks of his career.
Released on 6 August 2021 as the lead single from the deluxe edition of S.O.O.N 2 (A Better Year), I’ll Always Have Me features Veena and was produced by Kaizer Beats. The song offered an intimate reflection on self-worth and perseverance, themes that continue to resonate years after its debut.
Touchline’s memorable lyric, “Girls change, friends change but I’ll always have me,” became an anthem of self-belief, while Veena’s soulful chorus reinforced the song’s central message that even in life’s loneliest moments, a person can still rely on themselves.
What began as a deeply personal release has since grown into one of the standout records in South African hip-hop. The official music video has amassed more than 2.3 million views on YouTube, while Spotify streams have climbed to nearly three million, making it Touchline’s most-streamed song on the platform.
The record reached another major milestone in 2025 when it received Gold certification from the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA). The plaque marked the first certified release for Touchline, while also celebrating producer Kaizer Beats and featured vocalist Veena.
The achievement drew praise from across the industry, with DJ Clen publicly congratulating the rapper and describing him as “one of the few genuine people I’ve crossed paths with.” Fans have continued to connect with the song’s honest storytelling, particularly those who see their own struggles reflected in its lyrics.
Born Thabo Mahlwele and raised in Thembisa, Touchline has built a reputation for prioritising substance over trends. Across projects including S.O.O.N 2, Boyzen Da Hood, Before I Say More 2 and his 2025 album Mambisa Golden Boy, he has consistently delivered music rooted in authenticity and personal experience.
Five years after its release, I’ll Always Have Me continues to find new listeners while remaining a favourite among longtime supporters. Touchline’s quiet acknowledgement of the anniversary served as a reminder that some songs outlast trends because they speak to something timeless.
In a fast-moving music industry, the rapper’s reflection was less about celebrating numbers and more about appreciating a record that continues to inspire. Sometimes the biggest victories are not the loudest, and I’ll Always Have Me remains proof that sincerity can leave a lasting legacy.
The post Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have Me’ With Heartfelt Reflection appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
The post Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have Me’ With Heartfelt Reflection appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have Me’ With Heartfelt Reflection. South African rapper Touchline took a moment to celebrate one of the most cherished songs in his catalogue, marking five years since the release of I’ll Always Have Me with a heartfelt yet understated reflection. Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have …
The post Touchline Marks Five Years Of ‘I’ll Always Have Me’ With Heartfelt Reflection appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag. Read More
