Maleh (singer) Biography: Age, Husband, Albums, Net Worth, Height, Parents, Songs & Career

Maleh, born Malehloka Hlalele, is a soulful South African singer-songwriter whose Afro-pop and jazz-infused music resonates with themes of love, self-discovery, and empowerment.

Celebrated for her powerful vocals and heartfelt storytelling, she rose to prominence with her debut single Falling (2011) and albums like Lerato Laka (2022).

A Lesotho-born artist with a cinematic edge, Maleh’s journey from Bloemfontein’s music scene to international stages reflects her resilience and passion for authentic expression.

Profile

• Full Name: Malehloka Hlalele
• Stage Name: Maleh
• Born: 1980s
• Age: 40s
• Birthplace: Maseru, Lesotho
• Nationality: South African (born in Lesotho)
• Occupation: South African Singer, Songwriter, Cinematographer
• Height: 5’6
• Parents: Mr and Mrs Hlalele
• Siblings: unknown
• Spouse: None
• Children: One child
• Relationship: Single
• Net Worth: $100,000–$300,000

Early Life and Education

Malehloka Hlalele, known as Maleh, was born in Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, in the 1980s, growing up in the heart of the mountain kingdom’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Her early years were steeped in music, influenced by Lesotho’s traditional sounds and the soulful melodies her family played at home. Details about her parents and siblings are not publicly available, as Maleh maintains a private stance on her family life, focusing instead on her artistry.

Her childhood love for singing blossomed through church choirs and community gatherings, setting the stage for her future career.

Maleh relocated to Bloemfontein, South Africa, where she pursued her education and began her musical journey. She later moved to Johannesburg to study cinematography at a film college, a creative pursuit that complemented her musical talents.

Maleh’s educational background in cinematography, combined with her innate musicality, laid a strong foundation for her multifaceted career.

Career

Maleh’s musical career began in Bloemfontein, where she joined the Afro-pop group Kaya, contributing to their debut album Kunzima (2005), which won the Metro FM Best Newcomer Award. Her soulful voice and stage presence quickly stood out, but she left the group to further her studies in Johannesburg.

While working behind the scenes as a production coordinator for events like the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival, she drew inspiration from performances by artists like Chris Botti and Lalah Hathaway, fueling her return to music.

In 2011, Maleh launched her solo career with the single Falling, a heartfelt ballad that became a radio hit in South Africa, showcasing her emotive vocals and lyrical depth. Her debut album, Step Child (2011), followed, earning critical acclaim for its blend of Afro-pop, jazz, and soul.

Tracks like You Make My Heart Go further established her as a rising star. She performed at major festivals, including the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Cape Town International Jazz Festival, and Macufe Arts Festival, captivating audiences with her dynamic stage presence.

Her 2022 album, Lerato Laka, marked a triumphant return after a hiatus, celebrating women’s journeys of self-love and purpose. Featuring singles like Fire Dancer, Maboneng, and March On, the album showcased her versatility across genres while maintaining her soulful authenticity.

Lerato Laka resonated with fans for its empowering themes, drawing from Maleh’s own experiences as an independent artist.

She collaborated with artists like Sjava and performed alongside icons like Jonathan Butler, expanding her reach. Maleh’s work as a cinematographer also informs her music videos, which she often conceptualizes, adding a cinematic quality to her storytelling.

Beyond music, Maleh has contributed to South Africa’s cultural scene through event production and mentorship, inspiring young artists to embrace their authenticity. Her performances in Lesotho and across Africa highlight her commitment to connecting with her roots.

As an independent artist, she’s navigated industry challenges with grace, earning respect for her resilience and creative control.

Awards and Nominations

• 2005: Metro FM Music Awards, Best Newcomer – Kaya’s Kunzima (Won)

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @maleh_music
• Facebook Handle: Maleh
• Twitter Handle: @Maleh_Music

Personal Life

Maleh resides in Johannesburg, South Africa, with occasional visits to her homeland, Lesotho. She is single, with no publicly confirmed relationships or spouse, and keeps her romantic life private.

She is a mother to one child, though details about her child are not disclosed, reflecting her protective approach to family matters. Her focus remains on her music and personal growth, as evident in the empowering themes of Lerato Laka.

Maleh’s love for jazz and soul music influences her lifestyle, and she often shares her appreciation for artists like Lalah Hathaway on social media. She enjoys visual arts, drawing from her cinematography background, and finds inspiration in nature, particularly Lesotho’s mountains.

Her advocacy for women’s empowerment, rooted in her journey as an independent artist, resonates through her music and public engagements. Maleh’s grounded demeanor and spiritual outlook, often reflected in her lyrics, have endeared her to fans across Southern Africa.

Discography

Albums:

• Step Child (2011)
• Lerato Laka (2022)

Singles:

• Falling (2011)
• You Make My Heart Go (2011)
• Fire Dancer (2022)
• Maboneng (2022)
• March On (2022)

Collaborations:

• Member of Kaya, Kunzima (2005)
• Collaborations with Sjava and others (specific tracks not fully documented)

Net Worth

Maleh’s net worth is estimated at $100,000–$300,000.

Her income stems from album sales, live performances at festivals, and her work in event production and cinematography. As an independent artist, her earnings reflect a modest but sustainable career, with potential growth from Lerato Laka’s success.

The range accounts for limited public financial data and her focus on artistic integrity over commercial mainstream ventures.