Fashioning Modern Africanism

SOWETO born Amapiano dj and producer Musa Ndebele popularly known as Msaro is set to release his first ever single titled Guitar session. The single will drop on the 10th of March featuring Thee Exclusive _ Prince Zondo.  “AmaNom_Nom”, a phrase that depicts sweetness and good taste, are what he has named his 31 volumes of mixes. Reaching high numbers of downloads and awareness, he has also went on to attract a large audience with his sound. DJ Msaro's career has travelled only upward, and his love for production and skill-set grew steadily combining the love of getting people off the chairs with the love of music, Msaro has managed to gradually become a household name and a local mentor for upcoming producers in Soweto. Msaro’s prestigious and notable occasions is a testament to the hard work and many years of finessing his trade as an avid music fan, producer and DJ. Msaro’s work goes on to reflect his level of maturity and understanding of sounds, instruments and composing experi

Singer, Songwriter & Producer, Nonhle Mhlongo, affectionately known as Skye Wanda, whose prolific penmanship pivoted the spirit of groove tunes into an upper echelon as she has been honoured by the inaugural Basadi In Music Awards, winning the coveted SAMRO Songwriter Of The Year award. Skye Wanda garnered the accolade for her evergreen songwriting contributions for the likes of Zakes Bantwini, DJ Tira, Harrison Crump, Kings Of The Weekend, Malumz On Decks, Prince Bulo, Beast, Zakwe, Worst Behavior, Themba Broly , and Benny Maverick to name a few. In grand songwriter fashion, Skye Wanda celebrates her win by announcing her brand new single “AMAZWI” scheduled for release on 21 October 2022. “AMAZWI” taken from her forthcoming project, “STARLIGHT”, sets the tone for a booked and busy festival season where Skye will adorn her fans with roof-tearing performances.

Making World Music, Rapture 90s a trio from Alexandra Johannesburg with a single subtitled “Sondela” managed to hit 40 000 streams on spotify and got played in more than 108 countries across the globe. World Music takes different forms of musical styles all around the world like Bossa Nova, Rock, Punk, Jazz, Soul, Samba and Hip Hop and puts them in a single groove that can be enjoyed by anyone from different race, gender or ethnicity. Whenever they get in the studio they start painting the world musically with sounds which cross from border to border. "For us music is about setting a light to many than chancing stardom or fame. We believe that many people are still yet to set a taste of greatness when they listen to our music." Serving music for more than 5 years now they have performed with the likes of Shimza, Kabza De Small, Young Stunna and many more. They say from Alexandra many think that it’s impossible to make it out to the world with anything but crime, which they ha

The Voice SA Season 3, Third place runner-up, Sikilelwa Jo-An Qwazi known as Siki Jo-An to her fans is set to release her second single titled, Bekezela. The multi-talented, singer and songwriter artist born and raised in Port Elizabeth, Kwazakhele township strikes soothing cords in her latest offering. The Bekezela track is a symphony of powerful, perfectly laid hybrid sounds of afro pop/soul about hope. This tune she is dedicating to her loved ones and the nation as a whole, encouraging everyone not lose hope. Bekezela, which is a self-written number produced by Mojalefa ‘Mjakes’ Thebe will be released on Saturday, 20 August 2022 on all digital music streaming platforms: Spotify, Applemusic, itunes, Deezer and Shazam. "I am excited about the release of Bekezela. I poured my heart and soul to this song. I am fortunate to have worked with a team that believed in the song and what it means to me. I hope South Africa will enjoy this tune and my sound” says, Siki Jo-An. The independe

Nkosinathi 'Nay Maps' Maphalala, one of South Africa’s admired actors launched his official debut single titled   I’ll Be there   on Wednesday evening at an intimate setting hosted at White lounge in Sunninghill, in collaboration with Bombay Sapphire.  Those who were on the guest list included his close friends, family, celebrities, and members of the media. This has been a long time coming, Nay Maps’ music has been highly anticipated by fans as he has been giving them snippets of his great talent in music, be it on the Piano, or Vocals on the microphone. Listen Here ⬇️ Nkosinathi comes from a musical family, his parents, an Apostle, Simeon Maphalala, who is now late, as well as his mother, Xoliswa Maphalala have always loved music and have been musicians their whole lives.    “As a boy growing up my parents would make me sing at events and push me to perform on stage as they saw the gift I possessed with Music and Storytelling,” says Nay Maps.   The story behind his Debut Sing

Now at age 24, Kimon, a classical artist from Randburg, South Africa, has gone Pop. He is set to release his first single titled “Feel What You Wanna Feel” on the 18th of March 2022. The song has been released with independent record label/film audio company – 475 Audio Productions and distributed by Paradise Africa. The lyrics embody a profound relationship with the soul, the profoundness that all areas of life need to be fulfilled including that of our innermost thoughts and feelings. Kimon is a bit of a polyglot with music as his first language followed by English, Zulu and a bit of Greek and Afrikaans and his party trick of counting in 10 different languages.  Listen:  Here “ What I really want is for all of us to be free in our own truths, to be able to feel what you wanna feel”- says Kimon “Feel What You Wanna Feel" is a dark pop ballad with elements of soul and R&B. The song speaks about pleading to the lover to accept their feelings and to be who they truly want to be

Sifiso Nkosi popularly known as,  MAFIDZODZO released ‘Iqolo Lami’ on Friday the 25 th of March, this single is his first release and marks the beginning of his journey as a solo recording artist. This drop comes after the success of smash hit ‘Gqoz Gqoz’ with multi-platinum selling producer, Busta 929, now sitting on over a million streams on Spotify alone and over 1.7 million views on YouTube. ‘Iqolo Lami’ is a street song that directly translates to; My back hurts because of all the fun I had yesterday, he collaborated with the Amapiano trend setter; Seekay, MC and musician Mgiftoz SA, music producers Almighty and Zwesh on this joint. LISTEN HERE Mafidzodzo goes on the explain how this song is based on real life events and personal experiences, he made this song after a period of back-to-back gigs where the team would make a fuss about how they have back aches from all the long nights and hours spent honing their craft. Mafidzodzo continues to play a significant role in the

  iYA, born Nkhosiyabongwa Dlamini modest of her innate gift of voice Dlamini holds close the passion and love for music. Her voyage on the music road began when she became a member of a band formed with friends which was dubbed; “The Afroctaves”. The group saw great strides and made it to the semi finals in a national competition; T55 Nation Talent Search.  iYa has been nurturing her talent by evoking the lyricist inside her, by virtue of numerous collaborations and hours of studio time.  Simplistic and natural in approach, iYA’s sound is a blend of soul R&B, modern contemporary jazz, urban soul and new age neo soul. She attributes  gospel and the 90’s nostalgia. Though Eswatini is our Mzansi’s closest neighbour, it is worth mentioning that iYA was born and raised in this luxuriously green magical kingdom.                                                                 Listen Here Fast Forward to 2021 where the world finally started seeing some hope for recovery after the troublin

Javie Javas transports a tuneful sound blueprint in his latest offering; Ngiceli Sgubhu a piano track loaded as an essential amapiano care gift wrapped and curated with unblemished taste. Born Jabulani Katyana, this Eastern Cape national who now resides in the Vaal, captures the essence of true piano spice through his distinct desire to change the perception of South African culture on a global scale.  Javie javas grew up in the vibrant and robust township of SterkSpruit in the Eastern Cape, his upbringing was filled with passion, he grew up with a love for playing soccer. Like most South Africans Javie Javas did not have it easy, his mother raised her family a single parent but always ensured that her children executed their dreams and ambitions. In 2016 Javie Javas was featured on a live Gospel DVD. This  became the foundation for what is now a successful music career. In 2019 Javie Javas released his first single called; Sukela Kusasaunder this led to a variety of songs being record

Big Daddy SA teamed up with award winning producer Dj Micks. Through this collaborative effort they engineered a unique sound which  challenges what ampanio could evolve into. ‘Ngiyabonga’ is the first of a 3 part single series. Born Silas Mudau, this Venda national captures the essence of Africa through his distinct desire to create music that will spark joy in others lives.  Big Daddy SA grew up in the lush green and scenic village  of Tshimbupfe-Hamanavhela in Venda, his childhood was where the spark  of music ignited, through church activities and various music competitions music became second nature to Big Daddy.  Upon reaching university Big Daddy SA also decided to study the theory of music as an additional subject.  The richness of Big Daddy’s love for music stems deep from a place of worship as well as from a distinct place of belonging. Big Daddy SA had a long relationship with music as a young teen to his early twenties to the point where he released a gospel album in 2005 a

In a dynamic and evolutionary world of Hip Hop, Trap star Le Hommie sets a tone to be a force in his own lane. The Zimbabwean born rapper, real name Panashe Mrewa, started making noise in Cape Town under his affiliation with the Synergy crew and fellow Cape Town rapper Tayie. The now Cape Town and London-based recording artist has over the years carved a signature sound that has come to be a ticket in setting him apart from his peers.  Following his fall out with the Synergy crew he focused his efforts on making music that is upbeat and soulful, churning out a steady stream of records and singles, and further proving that he's not just another studio-artist rookie but a success-in-the-making dynamite who's turn to blow up is imminent. In his latest new single Tax, Le Hommie teams up with an Angolan-born rapper Si Xiazi. The single that is set to drop June 15th follows on the moderate success of his previous attempts and promises to continue adding that winning stamp to his soun

A beneficiary of the era where ‘Igoli’ was indeed the city of gold, Slovaz received his industry recognition in a time where the South African entertainment industry was breaking boundaries and creating television history.  Born Kicky Khumalo , the Kwamashu native encapsulates the lifeblood  of Kwaito through authentic music virtuoso. Nearly 17 years in the making and perfecting of his craft, Slovaz has been in the exciting field of music and television since 2001.  In 2004 he appeared in the controversial local drama Yizo Yizo 3. Th ere he played a character of himself, a young man from KwaMashu, coming to Jozi to pursue his dreams and ambitions of breaking into the entertainment industry and starting a music empire.  He was also featured on the soundtrack of Yizo yizo 3, with his big hit “Sho Sgebengu” which led him to work on a full album with revered producer D-Rex. And in 2005 he released his debut album titled Impilo Kalova where he featured Kwaito heavy weights Big Nuz and Bhar.

Amstel Maboa, The only surviving member of Legendary afro-pop group 3Sum. Maboa never left the industry but kept his brand alive. Speaking to the publication he said “I’ve always believed that my art will save me and that only makes me different” Said Maboa. Lelopo is a traditional dance that helps you connect with innerself it also help you find healing of body mind & soul. The message behind the song is to remind people not forget who we are as Africans & to embrace our Africanism through dance and music. The song is inspired by all different traditional dances from our different cultures as a rainbow nation. The song was produced by Rooted a young talented producer from my township Mamelodi he is also featured on the song ” My Album is inspired by culture & african tradition, the new single Lelopo is now available on all digital stores” he added. Song Review:  Lelopo’s intro is atmospheric and it capture one’s imagination from the start . The beat sets up a mood to dance

Singer, songwriter, rapper, producer born Gift Zuma, better known as Gift Official is a creative that sees no limits in creating his craft. Gift Official was born in South Africa but has spent much of his life in the UK.      Gift Official gives blends of South African music he was previously exposed to as well as the unique Manchester influence that embodies his current environment.  “Too Many Man” was originally planned to be released in 2018, “The song was slightly ahead of its time” the young artist explains.  In 2019 with the entire world in complete chaos; including diasporas from Africa , Iran and even Europe. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to release a song that could do some much needed healing.   “Seems bad things often happen in 3’s, because that's when the world pandemic COVID-19 hit”. Once again the release was put on hold.    2020 saw a new opportunity for the release of “Too Many Man”. With emotions fleuring high, and human solidarity at its peak, “Too Many M

Velvet is back on the block with a new jam to take over the party scene as the lockdown regulations gets eased. Former IdolsSA 2014 Top 32 finalist, Born PROFFESOR MODEST BHENGU has released a new single titled; “Girls”. The song encompasses rich sounds with full bodied opera style vocals simply putting the man on the spot to live up to his stage name - Velvet. "Girl's" is a House track that embodies the deep rhythm of Mzansi, accompanied by the velvety voice of Velvet. In his delivery he is artistically “showing off”, he creates a musically dynamic story from low notes to beautifully rounded vibrato notes, and High notes that could grab Whitney Houston's attention from beyond her grave, May her soul rest in peace 💔 . The  Official release date for “Girls” is set for  23 October 2020. Velvet describes the storyline of “Girls” as a real life experience in which the majority of South Africa succumbed during lockdown. The job losses and constant claustrophobia and the m

                                Listen Here  A new breed of African maverick, BobbiDean is a producer, songwriter and performer whose rich fusion of musical textures and sonics is set to win over a new global audience. His first single on Real Life Music; Toppa, a key track of his forthcoming album “It’s A Medley”, coming in March 2021. BobbiDean is a perfect fit for taking independent African artists to the world. BobbiDean reveals a sound that transcends genres, and that articulates and integrates African sounds and rhythms into a rich fusion of musical textures and sonics.    The Nigerian-born BobbiDean is known for his hitmaker status, having worked on chart-topping tracks with musical talent spanning the Africa continent. Among these are the hitmaker Mr Kamera where Bobbi partners with him to create Tik Tak a track that embodies authentic African instruments that transcends one into a space free of all the horror and uncertainties the world faces with the COVID-19 pandemic. BobbiD

Multi award winning hip hop superstar, Ntokozo Zakwe, collaborated with multi talented and musically ordained Tribal, to bring a spiritually uplifting song titled Ngiyabonga. The music video to this song debuted on Thursday the 23rd for the first time on Trace.  The construction phase of this body of work "Cebisa" was quite a gruesome challenge which came with blessings and lessons until it came alive, says Zakwe. His younger brother Mzwandile Zakwe, who is also the manager of the hip hop sensation said "Cebisa" is Zakwe's best body of work that he had ever done, and we are indeed honored. Still on that grateful tip Zakwe announced that his album Cebisa had reached Gold status. Watch Video Here Zakwe has extended his gratitude for the endless support from his fans, family, his label and all relevant parties who have rallied behind him. "Ngithanda ukubonga kini nonke" Follow @ZakweSA and @Iam_Tribal on Social Media Platforms

She’s the Queen of Afro House”  –  Rollingstone Magazine “The Afro House queen dives deep into Afrobeat history”  –  The Fader Magazine   “….the singer who has managed to carve her own lane in the bustling Nigerian music scene”   – Okay Africa              Johannesburg, South Africa  – Multi award winning Nigerian artiste Niniola is back with her new single  ADDICTED   which is already making waves on radio stations across the continent. Having organically shot to fame across the globe in 2017, with hit single Maradona from her debut album, Niniola Apata aka Niniola is a multi-talented Grammy nominated singer, songwriter, producer, philanthropist and entrepreneur is back. Her latest single titled  “ADDICTED”  from her much anticipated upcoming album ‘ Colours and Sounds ’ dropped last week, and already has great response globally with huge airplay on stations locally.   The single is a fun Afro House track, centred around lost love and finding your way back to it. Written as an ode to