Mgodi was inspired by Zahara's experiences with the intense public scrutiny that South Africa's tabloid journalists have subjected her to during her career. The album was also influenced by her departure from her former label, TS Records, in December 2016.[2]Zahara recorded the album in Johannesburg with producer Mjalefa "Mjakes" Thebe. Her three sisters make an appearance on the album during the track "God in the Valley"