BABYG!RL ZAE opens verse challenge ahead of ‘Sanbonani’ release

BABYG!RL ZAE is set to release a new single, ‘Sanbonani’, this Friday, 6 November 2026, and she is using the launch to give upcoming rappers a shot at joining her on the track’s remix, according to SA Hip Hop Mag.

The artist, known as the Emtee Records First Lady, shared the news on Instagram. She opened her announcement with the greeting “Sanbonani Emakhaya” before confirming the release date and inviting rappers to take part in an open verse challenge.

How the open verse challenge works

Rappers are being asked to record their verses and post them on social media using the hashtag #SANIBONANIOPENVERSE, as given in the report. ZAE will then pick standout entries, and those chosen could appear on the official remix of the song.

In her post, she told fans to show their raps and skills for a chance of being featured. The report does not mention a closing date for entries or say how many artists will be selected.

A busy year for ZAE

The release follows an active 2026 for the rapper. Earlier in the year she teamed up with her label boss Emtee on the single ‘Manje’, and she later collaborated with Sastii on ‘Tlean’.

She also performed at the 20th anniversary edition of the Back to the City Festival, which SA Hip Hop Mag said has added to her growing presence in South African hip-hop.

With ‘Sanbonani’, she appears to be keeping that momentum going while also making room for newer voices. The challenge gives the release a community angle, since emerging artists could end up sharing a record with one of the scene’s rising female rappers.

What this means for aspiring rappers

If you rap and want to enter, the key details from the announcement are:

• ‘Sanbonani’ is due on all major streaming platforms on Friday, 6 November 2026.
• Verses should be recorded and shared on social media with the hashtag #SANIBONANIOPENVERSE.
• ZAE will choose standout submissions for the remix.
• Updates on the challenge and further announcements will be shared on her Instagram page, @babygrlzae.

Because no deadline has been published in the report, interested artists should keep an eye on her Instagram page for any further instructions once the song is out.

This story is based on reporting by SA Hip Hop Mag.