As November wraps up, the month brought a mix of emotions and sounds in music. Tracks like Dato Seiko’s Sahasrara and Khanyisa Jaceni’s Softer focused on healing, personal growth, and introspection, offering moments of connection. On the other hand, songs like Masterpiece YVK’s Ke Dezemba and Dinho’s Somlandela brought high energy and festive vibes, setting the tone for the festive season. November’s music balanced deep reflection with joyful celebrations, making it a dynamic month musically.

TNK MusiQ “Ask & Recieve 2”

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Featuring artists like LeeMcKrazy, Kabelo Sings, Scotts Maphuma and Dj Raybel just to mention a few, Ask & Receive 2 showcases a collaboration of established and emerging talents, reinforcing the EP’s vision of unity within the music community and supporting new talent. According to TNK MusiQ, Ask & Receive 2 serves as a response to fans’ demands just like Ask & Receive 1. “The EP is called Ask & Receive because fans kept asking for more music, and now we’re giving it to them. Fifty percent of the songs were inspired by requests, and the other half is our new, creative input.” Reflecting on the EP’s collaborative spirit, they added, “It was an amazing experience working with both emerging artists and seeing everyone come together with such passion.”

Dato Seiko “Sahasrara“

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The song delicately unpacks the experience of living with unresolved emotions, confronting the fallacy that time alone heals all wounds. Dato masterfully navigates the uncertainty of relationships through poignant lyricism, asking, “Was I catastrophizing the situation, or just gaslighting myself into letting unsettling feelings slide for the sake of love?” Every line reveals a moment of vulnerability, culminating in a cathartic release that captures the artist’s emotional truth. Backing vocals from Sandi Ncube elevate the raw emotion of Sahasrara, adding depth and texture to an already immersive soundscape. The melodic layers blend seamlessly with Dato Seiko’s signature style, creating a track that “feels and sounds like healing.” Reflecting on the creative process, Dato says, “Writing Sahasrara was painful but necessary. I relived memories I’d buried, wondering about all the ‘what-ifs’ and questioning if I was too soft for this world. But by the end of it, I knew this was my favourite song—it felt like a journey through pain and into peace.”

AlorG “Down I’m A Rebel.”

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At the core of Down I’m A Rebel is the title track, a bold anthem that speaks directly to rebellion—not just in the political sense, but as a personal stance against oppression in all forms. This track, like the others, carries a message of hope. AlorG’s aim is to remind listeners that no matter how challenging life becomes, they are not alone. His music resonates with those facing struggles and encourages them to push through.

Mars Baby “Forgiving You”

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“Forgiving You is about my family,” says Mars Baby. “We haven’t always seen eye to eye. But when you look back on all the things that went right, the sacrifices your family made, the issues that seemed so big when you were younger start to shrink away. Forgiving them is actually easy.”

DTX “HIGH”

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“I want them to enjoy and celebrate their moments. Be it a love high, a success high, a career-high, or any accomplishment that gets you feeling high and confident in yourself”, said DTX.

Eric Bellinger “Feelings Never Die”

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About “Feelings Never Die,” Eric commented, “I wanted to tap in below the surface level on this one. A lot of my music is based around Love because I’m so deep in it, but I wanted to make a song about being heartbroken and still not giving up. To show people what it looks, sounds and feels like to fight for love.”

Khanyisa Jaceni “Softer”

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‘Softer,’ a five-track EP that highlights her evolution as an artist. Known for her lively Amapiano hits, Khanyisa now takes a step into more subdued, sultry and introspective rhythms, offering listeners a new emotional depth while staying rooted in Amapiano’s essence.
The EP features tracks in Xhosa, Zulu and Tshivenda, celebrating South Africa’s diverse cultures while introducing a mature and sophisticated sound.

Ronnie L x Nick Mathevula “Same God”

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Anchored in the enduring promise of God’s faithfulness, this track speaks to the soul, reassuring listeners that God is a constant, unchanging presence in times of joy and struggle alike.

Thabisi “Same Place”

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Thabsie’s anticipated return marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her career, as she reclaims her spot in the African music culture scene, and reminds audiences of her undeniable talent and passion for music. “Same Place” is a global Afro R&B crossover anthem that speaks to Thabsie’s fear of returning into the music space, and sheds light on her internal and external battles with doubt and fear. It is for anyone battling with their ‘Same Place’, whatever that may manifest as. The lead single serves as a testament to her musical evolution and growth during her time away, promising listeners a fresh sound and unforgettable melodies, rooted in her undeniable R&B identity.

Savinnah “Blink Twice”

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“I have a couple of collaborations and an EP on the way. Additionally, I would love to do some live performances this year.” She revealed. She also hinted that she will be working on a short film on gender-based violence. Her notable collaborations with record producer Michael Carpenter, Kenyan rapper and music producer Ndovu Kuu, and Kenyan music producer SoFresh show she knows how to pick talent to work with. “Blink Twice” is paving the way for a volcanic eruption of good music, great collaborations, and diverse projects that showcase Savinnah’s excellent work ethic, creativity, and adaptability.

Major League DJz x Tion Wayne “One Of Them”

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The collaboration between South Africa’s Major League Djz and UK artist Tion Wayne, bridges the gap between two powerful music genres, South African Amapiano and UK Drill, creating an innovative blend of rhythms and lyrics that brings the best of both worlds into a single, dynamic sound. One of Them showcases the unique artistry of Major League Djz and Tion Wayne, both of whom have become cultural influences in their respective genres. Major League Djz have championed the Amapiano genre, elevating its soulful, vibrant beats to a global audience.

Zādok x Stixx x Reed “4EVA”

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Zādok reflects on the song’s meaning: “‘4EVA’ is a pure Amapiano love anthem that radiates warmth and affection. This track is not only my ode to the genre as it was inspired by artists like Stixx but it’s also an opportunity to explore my singing range on an Amapiano beat. It is a celebration of love, resilience, and the hopeful nature of lasting relationships.”

DESIREE “Intersexy”

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DESIREE describes the EP as “very different” from her previous releases, particularly highlighting the title track: “Intersexy is cinematic and sounds like a house music track that was created with an orchestra… There’s a lot of strings and not so many electric sounds.” The EP reflects DESIREE’s growth as an artist and her commitment to authenticity. “It is a reflection of my identity and values,” she says. “Being a black intersex woman from South Africa, I frequently perform in places where individuals like me are scarce. It comes with a significant sense of responsibility, knowing that I represent diverse groups who support me.”

Rubygold “Filha da Lolita” and “Burning Fire“

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With “Filha da Lolita,” RubyGold delivers an intimate tribute to her late mother, Aurora Lolita Mendoza and grandmother. The song, titled “Lolita’s child” in Portuguese, reflects RubyGold’s journey of healing and self-discovery following her mother’s untimely passing when she was just six years old due to domestic violence. In this song, she honours her mother’s spirit and legacy, celebrating the strength passed down through generations and also standing with the victims of GBV. “Filha da Lolita” is a moving reminder of the unbreakable bond between mother and child and serves as an anthem of identity and resilience. RubyGold notes, “This song is my way of reclaiming my roots and affirming that my mother’s legacy lives on within me, grounding me as I navigate life’s challenges.”

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“Burning Fire” embodies the fierce determination and transformative spirit of a phoenix rising from the ashes. With electrifying energy and empowering lyrics, the song explores themes of resilience and rebirth, inviting listeners to channel their inner strength and overcome obstacles. “Burning Fire” captures the journey of self-discovery and transformation, encouraging audiences to see setbacks as catalysts for growth. As RubyGold describes, “This song celebrates the fire within us all. It’s about embracing challenges as opportunities to become the best version of ourselves. ‘Burning Fire’ is a reminder that we each have the power to ignite our potential.”

Rorisang Sechele “Tsoga”

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“This one’s close to my heart— it’s a gentle wake up call. It is a reminder that we each hold the power to awaken our spirit, to pick ourselves up, and to keep moving with purpose. Tsoga whispers to the part of us that knows we’re capable of more,” says Rorisang.

DJ Mic Smith x Medikal x Shatta Wale “Liquor“

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With “Liquor,” DJ Mic Smith takes listeners on a high-octane journey through the Afrobeat scene. Driven by infectious percussion and rhythmic guitar riffs, the song boasts a danceable groove with fast tempos and punchy basslines that lock seamlessly with dynamic drums. The engaging beat is complemented by catchy melodic hooks and layered harmonies, adding depth and building the track from quieter verses into powerful, intense choruses. This upbeat anthem transports listeners to a lively club scene, capturing the energy, the people, and the unforgettable moments of a night out.

Miano x Killa Punch x Vusinator x Super Mosha “Hamba Nam”

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Miano said “this is a December Banger. Hamba Nam is only the beginning and I’m calling music fans to come with me on this musical journey” while Killa Punch added “this song is close to my heart as it represents my comeback to the industry. Many people think we do what we do for fame but it’s mostly for the love of Music and for the fans.”

Sabrina Love x D Smoke “Pull Over“

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Sabrina Love has been making waves across Africa with her recent EP, Unstoppable, which showcases her versatility and authentic artistry. Her music explores themes of love, self-confidence, African beauty, and the simplicity of life, offering a refreshing and inspiring journey for listeners. “Music is a universal language that connects us all,” says Sabrina Love. “I am excited to share my music with South Africa, a country that I adore, and I hope my sound resonates with the people there.” With Amapiano continuing to gain global recognition, the release of ‘Pull Over’ marks a significant moment for Sabrina Love as she sets her eyes on South Africa, a country known for pioneering the amapiano genre. Pull Over also features an international collaboration with American rapper D Smoke, highlighting the growing appeal of African music internationally.

Mayorkun x Firebox DML “Innocent”

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Released under Sony Music West Africa, “Innocent” marks an exciting new chapter in Mayorkun’s career, blending his signature Afrobeats style with fresh, soulful elements. “Innocent” is more than just a song — it’s a record teeming with vulnerability and resilience, capturing the essence of navigating love and life in the spotlight. With an infectious beat and memorable lyrics, Mayorkun and Fireboy DML explore the allure of romantic desire, each bringing their unique vocal energy to the track.

Ihhashi Elimhlophe “Iy’kunzi” and “uJehova (Revisit)”

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“Inkunzi” fuses maskandi with electronic elements, notably the log drum popularized by amapiano, without fully adopting the genre. The song is a call to leaders to prioritize unity and peace, drawing inspiration from the Zulu proverb: “Iinkunzi embili mazilwa, kulimala isibaya” (when two bulls fight, the kraal suffers). The kraal is a sacred symbol central to most African pastoral communities and customs, while the bull represents wealth and power.

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“uJehovah (Revisit)” is about the existence and proof of a Higher Power, reflecting Ihhashi’s spiritual journey as a church elder. It’s a dance-inspired reimagining of a song that first appeared on Ihhashi’s 2019 album, Ama Waza Waza, featuring singer Ntombee—one-fourth of the late ‘90s teenage group Amaponi, and also Ihhashi’s daughter.

Deep London x Smash SA x Wesley Keys x Tswalo x Kaymo Grillz x Villosoul “My Baby”

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Deep London shares, “We wanted to create something that would represent South Africa’s rich musical heritage while bringing our own fresh take on Amapiano. Collaborating with Wesley Keys, Tswalo, Kaymo Grillz, and Villosoul was a great way to bring together diverse voices and styles, making this song something truly unique.”

Yumbs x Zwayetoven x Mawhoo x Mthunzi “Ngeke”

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“This song is a dedication to all those who hold love close to their hearts,” says Yumbs. “With ‘Ngeke,’ we wanted to capture the feeling of standing by someone no matter what life throws at you.”

Zichy “Deep Hearted Sound”

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At the core of Deep Hearted Sound lies a distinctively “deep-hearted” sound, as Zichy describes it. Each track weaves together his personal experiences, exploring both love and life’s challenges in ways that feel authentic and immersive. “I wanted to make good music that had intentional value and a soothing feeling,” says Zichy. “This EP introduces not just my sound, but my story.”

Th&o. “Emlotheni“

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This album blends the rich, soulful textures that fuses the African sounds with forward-thinking electronic music and production, creating a sound that is completely ahead of its time. “I wanted Emlotheni to be an album that reflects both my personal journey and the evolution of my sound,” says Th&o. “It’s a fusion of two worlds—African music and electronic production—that speaks to my roots while embracing innovation. I’m thrilled to share this with the world.”

Zee Nxumalo “Inja Ye Game”

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“This project captures my journey over the past year. It’s been a whirlwind of performances, personal growth, and a deep dive into what makes me, me,” Zee Nxumalo reflects. “I don’t want to be boxed in—I’m not just an amapiano artist, not just an Afro Pop artist. I’m a star without limits.”

Djy Biza “I’ve Lots of Money To Spend (Remix)”

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The original song, which became a staple of township culture and a symbol of prosperity and joy during a time of social change, is getting new life through this groundbreaking collaboration between Gallo and Rap Academy. As part of the celebration of 30 years of democracy and musical excellence in South Africa, “I’ve Got Money” merges the best of the past with the innovative creativity of today’s artists. The remix, produced by Djy Biza, features Mzu M, Tracy, and Thatohatsi on vocals, offering a vibrant new take on the beloved classic. Inspired by the recent wave of remixes, such as Uncle Waffles’ remix of “Peacock”, this project aims to bridge generations by fusing timeless classics with contemporary beats, making them accessible to a new audience.

Azana Makhozana “Shona Phantsi”

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“This song is all about feeling good and celebrating life,” Azana shares. “As we approach December, it’s important to embrace joy and take a moment to appreciate everything we’ve experienced this year. Shona Phantsi is a jam to remind us to let loose and enjoy the last stretch of 2024.”

Gaba Cannal “Baw’Yena”

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“This album is a reflection of my musical journey, drawing inspiration from my roots and the ever-evolving Amapiano landscape,” says Gaba Cannal. “Baw’ Yena is a call to the dance floor, a celebration of life, love and self expression.”

Spumante “Pholas“

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This innovative collection, rooted in the ‘private school’ subgenre of amapiano, brings to the foreground the genre’s deep house and jazz influences, highlighting a sophisticated and groovy musical experience. ‘Pholas,’ which translates to ‘chilled,’ perfectly encapsulates the essence of this project. It delivers a refined version of amapiano that maintains the high-energy vibe of the genre while offering a more understated and sophisticated sound.

Eric Bellinger “It’ll All Make Sense Later”

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Eric opened up about the creative and spiritual journey behind the making of his new album, “I traveled to South Africa to create this album and it was one of my greatest experiences in making music. This album is a form of liberation for me. I see it as a Faith Walk—believing that what God has waiting for me on the other side is far greater than what presents itself in the present moment. It’s given me the confidence to move forward, trusting fully in the vision, knowing It’ll All Make Sense Later,” adding, “I hope this album will inspire my fans.”

Njerae “Nyumbani”

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Njerae expressed her excitement about the upcoming release, saying, “‘Nyumbani’ is a song that speaks to the universal longing for love and the comfort of home. It’s a celebration of connection, and I can’t wait to share it with the world” she mentions.

Bravo Le Roux x Reezy Rye “Haybo“

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When asked about the release Reezy Rye commented, “The inspiration behind the song felt effortless. I was working on a song with Donel for Scorpion Music Group’ new compilation, in the studio with Trigga, and then Bravo pulled up with Shaney Jay and Youngsta’ CPT. The vibe was instant, we connected right away, feeding off each other’s energy. From that moment, everything just flowed naturally, and before we knew it, we had something special. The rest, as they say, is history.”

Kabelo Sings “699”

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From his humble beginnings in the ghetto, Kabelo Sing’s music carries a deeply personal narrative of transformation. The album is a celebration of triumph over life’s struggles—what he calls going from “nothing to something.” In his own words, “In Ekasi, we say 6 and 9 kuyafana—it is all the same. Life’s possibilities are endless.” While 699 is deeply personal, Kabelo Sing’s creative process involved input from trusted collaborators. ShaunMusiq contributed ideas that enriched the project, while the inclusion of features was a deliberate choice to bring unique voices to specific tracks. “The creative process was amazing but challenging,” Kabelo admits. “I wanted to create something that resonates with everyone’s experiences, not just mine.”

Kay Faith x Mac 11 “Bayasazi“

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For Kay Faith, “Bayasazi” is more than just a track—it’s a tribute to the golden era of South African music. “I discovered the Doc Shebeleza track on Tracklib,” she shares, “and as someone who grew up loving kwaito, I immediately wanted to create something that honored that era. The drums had to knock, and the bassline needed to be absolutely irresistible.” Bringing the vision to life, Mac 11 delivers a standout vocal performance that ties it all together. “He added exactly the right flavor to the track,” says Kay. “His energy took it to a whole new level.” The process of creating “Bayasazi” was seamless, reflecting the magic of collaboration and nostalgia. “This year has been so crazy for me—I’ve been doing everything except releasing music,” Kay reflects. “So, I thought it was time to drop something for December and kick off KAY DEZEMBA in style!”

Sho Madjozi “Ndi Rine“

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“This is the first time I am feeling excited about releasing music in a long time. I was very unhappy as a signed artist and now I am independent and about to roll out what will likely be my final album.” says Sho Madjozi. Ndi Rine is a dance-floor-ready track that promises to ignite parties, playlists, and radio waves across the country and beyond. As the lead single from her forthcoming album, it sets the tone for what fans can expect from Sho Madjozi’s next chapter: boundary-pushing artistry and a deeper exploration of Africa’s sonic landscape.

Nomfundo Moh x De Mthuda “My Love“

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This collaboration brings together two of South Africa’s finest talents, promising a collaboration of unique sounds and styles. Stepping out of her comfort zone, Nomfundo Moh’s venture into the Amapiano genre showcases her versatility and ability to evolve as an artist.

Bizzcuit “The New Era 2”

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“Bizzcuit is in her NEW ERA” says Bizzcuit.

Dr Thulz x Mnqobi Yazo “Impakamo“

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“We are overwhelmed by the love and anticipation you’ve shown for Impakamo,” shared Dr Thulz and Mnqobi Yazo in a joint statement. “Your support means everything to us, and it’s what drives us to push the boundaries. While the decision to delay wasn’t easy, we promise the wait will be worth it. Impakamo will be everything you’ve hoped for—and more.”

Givem Tyler “Re Tlo Mosha“

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“I’m excited to finally share Re Tlo Mosha with my fans,” says Givem Tyler Litch. “This track is all about celebrating life, unity, and the power of music to bring us together. Working with such incredible talents on this project was an amazing experience, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!”

Dinoh x Tumza D’Kota x AG’ZO x YDEE “Somlandela“

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Following the massive success of his chart-topping single Ukhome Lotto, Dinho is back with another Amapiano hit, Somlandela. Releasing just in time to fuel the excitement for his highly anticipated annual event, Dinho Café, the new single marks the beginning of the countdown to the December 26th celebration in the Southeast of Pretoria. Somlandela, which translates to “will follow him,” embodies a sense of unity and anticipation. The track showcases Dinho’s dynamic artistry alongside frequent collaborators Tumza Da Kota, Agzo, and Ydee. Infused with vibrant beats and infectious melodies, Somlandela is poised to dominate the festive season and ignite the road to Dinho Café.

KJ Spio x Harmonize x Konshens “Messi”

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KJ Spio reveals the back story of the collaboration, “Messi is a song that blends the biggest sounds in black music right now – Afrobeats, Dancehall and Amapiano. It is a fusion to pay homage to all those sounds and also music that has influenced us all,” adding, “I am all about creating a vibe that helps people have fun and enjoy themselves, whether they’re at a party or somewhere more intimate.”

Harmonize shares his excitement about working with KJ Spio and Konshens, saying “This track is a fusion of the trending music genres at their best. Music is universal, transcending genres, borders and continents. We all really had good synergy while collaborating so it was a very seamless process,” adding, “Expect loads of new music vibes from me and an upcoming joint project that I am very excited about. Harmo to the world!”

Konshens says, “Working with Harmonize and KJ Spio was effortless, we had a great time writing this cheeky tune and also shooting the video. I love music and sounds from the continent and the fact that our collaboration cuts across genres. I hope our fans get to enjoy the song and dance away as we come to the close of 2024,” adding, “I’ve been working on a solo project that is set to drop next year. It will be dancehall heavy and featuring other cool artists and sounds.”

Yumbs x Zwayetoven “Soul Buddies“

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Building on the smooth and refined sound of “Private School” Amapiano, Soul Buddies is a testament to the duo’s artistry and deep-rooted connection, dating back to their time at the National School of the Arts. The album title nods to the nostalgic TV show Soul Buddyz, while celebrating their shared passion for soul-infused music.

Dope Saint Jude “This Is Home“

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This Is Home is more than a remix EP; it’s a tribute to collaboration, creativity, and the empowerment of women in music production. Each producer has infused their unique style, blending sounds and genres that reflect the vibrant and diverse musical heritage of Africa.“This project is a celebration of pan-Africanism and the artistry of women producers who continue to inspire and break barriers in music. I’m incredibly honoured to share these powerful reinterpretations of my music with the world,” says Dope Saint Jude.

Masterpiece YVK “Ke Dezemba“

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The ‘Ke Dezemba’ EP promises to be a vibe-packed addition to any playlist, encapsulating the festive spirit of December. The tracklist features exciting collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry, ensuring an unforgettable musical experience.

Skatle x Gvnt “SS2”

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“SS2” is a uniquely packaged project as the two came guns blazing with the roster for the project from the likes of C-SIDE BOYZ to the likes of Buzzi Lee, Apple Music Rap Life Alumni – SCUMIE, Lowfeye, LaCabra, Blue Pappi and many more. The project is layered out as an experience to the growth of Skatle and Gvnt as individuals but also the community that the Qwellers brand has created for them. Each single builds a storyline of it’s own with the project mostly encompassing topics of love, courage, growth and partying at the fullest capacity.

Nomfundo Yekani “Half Klutch (Side B)“

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South African rapper and songwriter, Nomfundo Yekani is back with a brand new side to her “Half Klutch” series which showcases a unique journey of 6 tracks featuring the likes of Maggz, TheKidsNextDoor, Pablo, Napster and many more. Fans got to first hear the “Half Klutch” series in 2022 with a stellar 9 track experience which was then re-released in June 2024 with a gradual roll-out leading new listeners into this ear grabbing experience.

ANATII x Yumbs x Al Xapo “SEY’HLANGENE“

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For ANATII, this collaboration represents a significant milestone in his 15-year artistic journey. “Writing this song brought perspective on the challenges and growth I’ve experienced. With gamma., I have the ideal platform to share my sound worldwide and elevate the Bushman aesthetic to new heights,” he reflects. SEY’HLANGENE serves as the lead single for BOOM SZN, ANATII’s most ambitious project to date. The album promises a bold blend of innovative sounds while staying true to his artistic roots. Co-written with the talented Baby S.O.N, SEY’HLANGENE exemplifies ANATII’s continuous artistic evolution and commitment to innovation. He shares, “This song is about upliftment, big vibes, and delivering the Bushman sound that resonates with the people.”

THE END!

Let us know which tracks you dig!

Featured Image Source(s): Supplied