Malehloka Hlalele, popularly known as Maleh, began her musical journey in the heart of the majestic mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, where she was born and raised. The vocalist’s professional career took off in Bloemfontein, where she joined Afro-Pop group Kaya, which released their debut album Kunzima, winning them the Metro FM Best Newcomer Award in 2005. She later parted from the group to further her studies at a film college in Johannesburg. Maleh later worked for several events production companies as a production coordinator, producing various major music festivals. Discovering the music industry from behind the scenes, it was not long until the stage would call back the songstress. She returned as a solo artist in 2010. Between 2010 and 2011, Maleh featured on several hit collaborations, including DJ Qness (Uzongilinda’& Time), DJ Ganyani (Not so Far) and the international hit with DJ Kent, Falling.
Maleh’s 2011 debut album Step Child was a twelve track Neo Afro-Soul production that earned her two nominations in the 2013 Metro FM Music Awards in the Best African Pop and Best Contemporary Jazz categories. The album won her Best African Adult Album at the 2013 African Music Awards. Her follow-up album and first single, You Make My Heart Go, was released in December 2014. It was nominated at the 2015 South African Music Awards and won the Best African Adult Album award
Maleh is back with a brand new Afro Pop album titled Tones of the Queen, which celebrates the journey women take to find alignment, realise their worth, and pursue their goals and destinies against all odds. The album title also refers to various musical sounds and influences by different genres, showcased throughout the project.