Henry Ate releases brand-new single Ethel Jones
South Africa’s beloved 90s alt-pop band Henry Ate return with their brand-new single Ethel Jones, out Tuesday, 28 October 2025. The track marks another heartfelt chapter in the group’s enduring story — a collaboration that continues to bridge continents and decades between Karma-Ann Swanepoel in the U.S. and Julian Sun in Johannesburg.
Produced by original Henry Ate guitarist Kevin Leicher, Ethel Jones is a shimmering reflection on love, loss, and time’s quiet passing. With its urgent acoustic guitar, driving bass, and the signature ache of Karma’s unmistakable voice, the song feels both nostalgic and new, distinctly Henry Ate.
“Like so many of Karma’s songs, its beauty hides something sadder underneath,” shares Julian. “With lyrics such as ‘While the world keeps moving at its own damn pace / mine began to slow as I lost my grip and you let go,’ you may not know exactly what she’s singing about, but you feel it.”
More than just a new release, Ethel Jones is a reminder of why Henry Ate’s music has endured for nearly three decades: honest, raw, and deeply human.
“We’re not making music for charts or radio spins,” says Julian. “We’re doing it for love and because it still moves us.”
Henry Ate 2025 South African Tour Dates
For the first time since 2017, Henry Ate returns to South African stages for a limited run of shows with their first live performances in eight years. Cape Town and Joburg fans can expect a celebration of the songs that defined a generation, from classics such as Just and Henry, to their brand-new music.
- Thursday, 30 October – Brass Bell, Kalk Bay
- Saturday, 1 November – Café Roux, Cape Town
- Sunday, 2 November – The Troyeville Hotel, Johannesburg
With all forthcoming shows sold out, Henry Ate solidifies their place as one of South Africa’s most iconic bands.
Ethel Jones is out now on all digital platforms here.
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