In this week’s newsletter, Sony Music Africa signs Tumi Musiq, Netflix reveals its 2025 lineup, and Jay Jody drops Black Cards, while Sha Sha’s Eglasini hits 1M views, Tony Lankester takes on Edinburgh Fringe, and Vibrations brings Dizu Plaatjies & Samthing Soweto live. Let’s dive in!
TRESOR’S STUDIO PARTNERSHIP
TRESOR Reimagines African Music with Stellenbosch Studio Partnership
Multi-award-winning artist and entrepreneur TRESOR has teamed up with Sunset Recording Studios in Stellenbosch to redefine music recording in Africa. Known for its world-class facilities and scenic surroundings, the studio has been pivotal in TRESOR’s career. “Sunset Recording Studios has played a vital role in my career… a sanctuary for creatives,” he shares. This venture follows his R100 million Jacquel Ventures and GOMA creative haven, reinforcing his mission to elevate African artistry. Founder Jürgen von Wechmar calls it “a big step towards fulfilling a lifelong dream.”
UNA RAMS’ NEW SINGLE & VISUALS
Una Rams & Muneyi Capture Pure Love in “ndi a mufuna”
Una Rams teams up with Muneyi for “ndi a mufuna”, a soul-stirring R&B/Soul ballad released on January 29, 2025. The lead single from Una Rams’ debut album, “meet me at the altar”, this heartfelt track celebrates love and devotion. “This song is a celebration of love in its truest, most transformative form,” says Una Rams. Accompanied by breathtaking visuals on YouTube, “ndi a mufuna” marks the beginning of an album designed to soundtrack weddings and cherished moments.
ME.TAI’S NEW SINGLE & VISUALS
Me.Tai Steps Into the Spotlight with Debut Single “Emotional”
After years of penning hits for Africa’s biggest stars, Me.Tai is set to release her debut single, “Emotional”, on January 31, 2025. Having written for Bien Aime, Tiwa Savage, Bella Shmurda, and RAY BLK, she now claims her place as a recording artist. Produced by Elevated with UK duo Sons of Sonix, “Emotional” explores vulnerability, inner turmoil, and societal expectations. With visuals directed by JQ, the song captures raw emotion, marking a powerful debut. Me.Tai’s past work has graced Netflix’s Inventing Anna and BBC’s Champion. Now, she’s ready to make her own mark.
SONY ADDS TUMI MUSIQ TO ROSTER
Tumi Musiq Signs with Sony Music Africa & Drops New Single “Thixo Bawo”
Sony Music Entertainment Africa has signed Tumi Musiq, an Amapiano DJ/Producer from the East Rand, marking a major career milestone. Alongside the deal, he releases “Thixo Bawo,” featuring Mia, George Lesley, and Jay Sax. “Joining Sony Music is a dream come true,” says Tumi Musiq. His jazz and R&B-infused sound creates a soulful experience. “‘Thixo Bawo’ is a prayer, acknowledging the power of music to change lives.” With past collaborations like Russell Zuma’s Love Season, Tumi Musiq is set to soar. Fans can expect more heartfelt music from this rising star.
JAY JODY X MARCUS HARVEY COLLAB
Jay Jody Shuffles the Deck with His New Single “Black Cards”
Hip-hop artist Jay Jody is kicking off 2025 with Black Cards, a boom-bap-inspired single featuring Marcus Harvey, released on 31 January. The duo previously collaborated on Sunset Stories and reunited for this high-energy track. “Black Cards is about a feeling—confidence, bravado, and energy. We wanted listeners to feel like they just got a million rands deposited into their account,” says Jody. The song reflects his mindset and pursuit of financial freedom. Encouraging fans to manifest success, he adds, “Confidence helps you chase your dreams.” Expect an anthem that fuels ambition and good vibes.
SHA SHA’S NEW MUSIC MILESTONE
Sha Sha’s Single “Eglasini” Hits 1 Million YouTube Views
Sha Sha’s summer anthem Eglasini has hit 1 million YouTube views just a month after its release on 20 December 2024. The track, a collaboration with Tyler ICU, Scotts Maphuma, 2woshort, and Tyrone Dee, quickly became a festive season favorite. With its vibrant music video capturing the song’s energy, Eglasini has cemented itself as a staple on South Africa’s summer playlists. Following her hit Ndawana, Sha Sha continues to shine as one of amapiano’s leading stars, proving her staying power in the industry.
🚨 NEW MUSIC RELEASES THIS WEEK
Here’s A List Of Artists Who Dropped New Music This Week For You To Stream, Download & Buy
- Tae Africa “uMsasazi“
- Phatzus “HvnOnErth“
- Mpho.Wav “Hlala” (Remix)
- Sindiswa “Iphupho“
- Hyce x BoyPee x Brown Joel “Synergy“
- Vic_Typhoon x Baby S.O.N x Sbu Keys x Reed “LOVE“
- Sjava “Inkanyezi” Live
- Blue Pappi x Blxckie x Ma-E “Took Me For A Nai” (Remix)
- Makhadzi x Dr Skaro “Ma Arab“
- Oskido x Daliwonga x Deep Sen x King Talkzin “Date Night“
- Vusi Nova “Okuncinci“
- Teepeemassoxs “The Beginning“
ARIANA GRANDE CO-DESIGNS JEWELLERY
The Ariana Grande x Swarovski Collection Is A Dazzling Fusion of Music & Elegance
Swarovski announced its first creative collaboration with Global Brand Ambassador Ariana Grande, co-designed with Giovanna Engelbert. Inspired by music and self-expression, the Ariana Grande x Swarovski Capsule Collection features 16 stunning pieces, from crystal-encrusted musical notes to an elegant tiara and heart pendant. “I’m thrilled to continue my creative journey with Swarovski,” says Ariana. Engelbert adds, “This collection celebrates contemporary glamour through classic elegance.”Shot by Mert & Marcus, the campaign channels Old Hollywood allure. Available now at select stores.
NATIONAL ARTS GETS NEW CEO
Former National Arts Festival CEO Tony Lankester Appointed to Lead Edinburgh Fringe
The National Arts Festival congratulates former CEO Tony Lankester on his appointment as CEO of the Edinburgh Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Lankester, who led the Festival from 2007 to 2019, begins his new role in April 2025. “I’m going into the job in Edinburgh with the winds of Makhanda at my back,” says Lankester. “The National Arts Festival started my love affair with the arts world.”Board Chair Sikkie Kajee adds: “His diverse experience will serve him well as he leads the Edinburgh Fringe, a global movement that champions new work and opportunities for artists.”
SAMTHING SOWETO & DIZU PLAATJIES IN CONCERT
“Vibrations: Is A Celebration of African Sounds” Set for UJ Theatre
Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) presents “Vibrations: A Celebration of African Sounds” on 21 February at UJ Theatre, featuring legendary South African musicians Dizu Plaatjies and Samthing Soweto. The event highlights traditional African instruments, with an exhibition showcasing nearly 100 pieces. “This event celebrates Africa’s rich musical heritage,” says MIAF’s Violet Maila. Plaatjies will perform on indigenous instruments, while Samthing Soweto blends tradition with modern sounds. The initiative supports young instrument makers, funded by the National Lotteries Commission and partners like Afrikayna, Siemens Stiftung, and Goethe-Institut.
NEW SOUTH AFRICAN FILM TO WATCH
South Africa’s Next Crime Classic “City of Gold” Set for 2025 Release
South Africa’s crime epic City of Gold debuts in 2025. Directed by Fabien Martorell and produced with Neo Baloyi, the film stars Bonko Khoza, Brandon Auret, Gaosi Raditholo, and Given Stuurman. Set in Johannesburg, it explores power, betrayal, survival in the criminal underworld. “A film of surprises, shocks, and epic storytelling… It’s a cinematic triumph that harks back to the great storytelling of the ’70s,” says Robert Knepper. Producer Neo Baloyi notes, “This film is deeply rooted in the vibrancy and struggles of Johannesburg, but its themes are universal.” Martorell adds, “Johannesburg isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character, and its energy is felt in every frame.”
NETFLIX TITLES COMING IN 2025
Netflix Reveals Upcoming Local and International Series, Films and Games for 2025
Netflix has announced its highly anticipated 2025 lineup, featuring new South African films and series alongside global blockbusters. Local highlights include Semi-Soeter, an Afrikaans rom-com by Joshua Rous, and Meet the Khumalos, a comedy from Jayan Moodley. Exciting series like Tuiskoms (Feb 28) and Go! (Mar 21) will debut, while Kings of Jo’BurgS3 and Unseen S2 return. Globally, fans can expect Frankenstein by Guillermo del Toro, Zero Day with Robert De Niro, and Squid Game S2 (June 27). Netflix also expands into gaming, launching Squid Game: Unleashed and WWE 2K Mobile.
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