AFTER rumours in May that she had died, Siphokazi Buti, better known as Camagwini, and better still as Cama Gwini, is back with a new album titled Re-Birth.

The songstress says she has split her name, changed her image and her sound to include rock and Afro-soul elements to demonstrate her versatility as an artist.

Many regarded rumours of her death as a publicity stunt, but she claims it was a mistake by her cousin who was fooling around on Facebook.

The 29-year-old singer, who is known for her chanting style of singing, said she took a two-year break from the music scene to do some soul-searching.

"During the time off the music industry, I learnt to understand myself more and realised that I was actually blocking my own success through my actions."

Though it is publicly known that she went to train as a sangoma during her break, she flatly refused to speak about her training - and her ancestors.

"People always have funny things to say about ancestors. I respect my ancestors and the process too much to make it a public affair," she said.

She was hopeful that her fans would welcome her rebranding with open minds.

"The themes in this album were inspired by my own personal experiences - from losing hope, patience and loving myself," she said.

She told Sowetan: "In this album I am exploring the Afro-soul sound and have completely changed my image.

"I have never been one to be scared to experiment with unconventional fashion styles."

She attributed her bold fashion sense to her daring personality.

Re-Birth features hits like Jikelemaweni and Umdali. Cama Gwini will launch her new album tomorrow.