Don't Hug Me I'm Scared is not currently a known project by South African artist Credo V Daniels. Based on available information, the artist has released two primary albums: Still Where We Were (April 2026) and its stripped-down companion project Where We Still Were (July 2026) .
Still Where We Were is the groundbreaking debut album from South African singer, songwriter, and producer Credo V Daniels, marking a bold and controversial entry into the contemporary music scene. Known for his genre-blending sound that fuses soul, lo-fi, R&B, Afrobeat, and Afropop, Credo V Daniels has quickly become one of the most talked-about artists in South Africa . With this project, he introduces himself as a fearless creative who has spent nearly two decades working behind the scenes before stepping into the spotlight as a vocalist.
Released on April 7, 2026 via Indian Hill / MPANDEZEMITHI Holdings, the 10-track project serves as both a personal statement and a reflection on themes of faith, love, memory, and personal growth . Tracks like "Njalo Njalo," "Ngafa," and "Sedilaka" quickly became fan favourites, helping the album cross over 16 million streams and chart on Spotify Africa .
However, the album's success has been accompanied by significant controversy. Credo V Daniels has been open about using AI as a creative tool, particularly for backing vocals and choirs, explaining: "I think it's a tool. If you can use it, use it. But not fully like just prompt and then let it go. Create first. As I use it, I only use it for backing vocals, the choirs" . This transparency sparked widespread debate about AI-generated music, especially following his first live performance at the album launch, which faced backlash over vocal delivery and technical challenges .
Despite the controversy, Still Where We Were has proven its commercial viability, with the hit track "Njalo" securing a sync deal as the title sequence for Mzansi Magic's popular reality series Izingane zeS'thembu . The album was temporarily removed from Apple Music following a complaint but was reinstated after review, with management confirming no wrongdoing on Credo's part .
Building on the momentum of his debut, Credo V Daniels surprise-released Where We Still Were on July 6, 2026 . This 13-track project reimagines key songs from his catalogue in stripped-back arrangements, placing emphasis on honest lyrics, expressive melodies, and intimate vocal performances . The project features stripped versions of fan favourites like "All The Girls," "Njalo Njalo," "Ngafa," and "Sedilaka," alongside three new tracks: "S E R E N I T Y," "Fake Love Dreamin'," and "Othandweni" .
With both projects, Credo V Daniels delivers a thought-provoking body of work that challenges assumptions about authenticity, technology, and artistry in the modern music landscape. He proves that innovation, transparency, and emotional honesty can coexist, even when the path is unconventional.
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