This week, Xowié joins Apple Music’s Up Next roster, GR8FUL and Q2K drop bold new visuals and music, and Rap Academy remixes SA classics with Gallo Records. Plus, DJ Lag’s award nods, a fresh lineup on YFM’s Club Y and more.
XOWIE ANNOUNCED AS UP NEXT ARTIST
Rising Star Brings Bold, Empowering Sound
Apple Music has named South African singer-songwriter Xowié as its latest Up Next artist. “I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of Apple Music’s Up Next,” she shared. Influenced by icons like Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill, her music blends R&B, pop, and reggae while promoting self-confidence and empowerment. Her latest single, Nobody’s Fool, is a bold anthem about reclaiming power after heartbreak. “This song is about taking back my power,” she said. The track is from her upcoming EP, ALLO (A Little Long Overdue), set for release in April 2025 via Exodus Records.
GR8FUL DROPS GIMMICKS MUSIC VIDEO
Rapper GR8FUL Continues His Rise in 2025 With Collaborative Music Video
Cape Town rapper GR8FUL has solidified his presence in the hip-hop scene with the release of the official music video for “Gimmicks.” Featuring Priddy Ugly and KindlyNxsh, the track has gained traction on South African radio. “Gimmicks embodies the raw essence of hip-hop – lyrical precision, unwavering authenticity, and a deep-rooted sense of loyalty.” Directed by Some Idiots Studios, the video uses distinct settings to reflect each artist’s persona. As GR8FUL continues collaborating with industry heavyweights, his growing influence signals a promising future in South African hip-hop.
Q2K RELEASES NEW EP
Q2K Steps Into An Explosive Debut EP With Divine Mojo
Pretoria-born artist Q2K debuted their EP Divine Mojo on March 28, a genre-blending project celebrating identity, self-expression, and underground ballroom culture. “This project is my liberation,” says Q2K. “Divine Mojo is about fusing all the realities that shape me.” The EP explores contrasts—masculinity vs. femininity, organic vs. synthetic—through tracks like “Dollhouse” and “Beja.” Merging house, pop, and disco with alternative rap, Divine Mojo offers a nostalgic yet futuristic sound. With deep roots in fashion, performance, and nightlife, Q2K is shaping a new sonic movement in South African music.
RAP ACADEMY RELEASES NEW ALBUM
Remixing History with Gallo Record Company and Rap Academy
Gallo Record Company teams up with Rap Academy to celebrate South Africa’s 30 years of democracy and its musical legacy. The collaboration follows the release of two singles, “I’ve Got Money” and “Thus’mthwalo” in November 2024, leading to a highly anticipated album that blends South Africa’s rich musical history with contemporary artistry. Drawing from Gallo’s legendary catalogue, Rap Academy reinterprets classic tracks by icons like Miriam Makeba and Splash, infusing them with modern beats. Featuring artists such as Shakes & Les, Ice Beats Slide, and 031 Choppa, the project bridges generations, honoring the past while inspiring the future.
ELI JAE RELEASES NEW SINGLE
Eli Jae Shares Lead Track “Sexual Healing” From Forthcoming Album “Soundtrack to Great Sex”
R&B artist Eli Jae (born Abuchi Elijae Emedem) releases “Sexual Healing” as the lead track for his upcoming album Soundtrack for Great Sex (SFGS), set for release on May 9, 2025. Known for his rich vocals and emotionally charged lyrics, Eli Jae combines classic R&B sensuality with Afrobeats’ rhythmic energy, offering a captivating soundscape. Following the success of his debut EP Blend, Eli Jae continues to explore themes of love and vulnerability, positioning himself as a distinctive voice in contemporary music. SFGS promises a powerful extension of his artistry, blending intimacy and soulful storytelling.
CA MA GU TO DROP NEW EP
CA MA GU Pays Tribute to Her Heritage with Soulful Amapiano EP “Nqabashe”
CA MA GU is set to release Nqabashe on April 4, 2025, a five-track Amapiano EP named after her late grandfather’s clan name. Featuring an all-female lineup—including Asiphile Methuse, Anelisa N, uBusi Honey, and Ciphe Zote—the project highlights women in music. “Nqabashe is a tribute to my heritage,” says CA MA GU. Reflecting on spiritual connections, she adds, “I see him, I appreciate him.” Blending traditional and modern elements, Nqabashe offers uplifting melodies and rhythmic beats, reinforcing CA MA GU’s role in shaping the evolving Amapiano landscape.
STYLLERSUPREME RELEASES NEW EP
StyllerSupreme’s First District EP Is A fusion of Love, Resilience, and Afrofusion
British-Nigerian artist StyllerSupreme debuts First District, a three-track EP capturing the intensity of new love. Created in Lagos with producer Pjay and engineer IndoMix, the project blends Afrobeats, R&B, and Amapiano influences. “This EP hits differently for me… just being able to release music again means a lot to me,” he shares, reflecting on his journey through health struggles. Tracks like ‘Feeling’, ‘Party Jollof’, and ‘Trance’ explore romance with introspective storytelling and infectious rhythms. First District marks StyllerSupreme’s return, setting the stage for a dynamic 2025 with more music to come.
RUSHLAKE X UBONGO KIDS COLLAB
Expanding Access to Educational Content Worldwide
Rushlake Media has partnered with Ubongo, Africa’s leading producer of educational entertainment, to distribute series like Akili and Me, Nuzo and Namia, and Ubongo Kids in North America and Europe. Ubongo’s localized learning reaches over 42 million children in Africa monthly, promoting literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth. Through this collaboration, Rushlake Media will help extend these impactful programs to a wider audience. Philipp Hoffmann, CEO of Rushlake Media, highlighted the importance of accessible, high-quality learning resources, while Ubongo CEO Mwasi Wilmore expressed excitement about expanding their reach to new families globally.
EVERARD READ CELEBRATES THE ARTS
Minister McKenzie Meets Arts Community At the Everard Read Gallery Event
Everard Read Gallery hosted an intimate event with South African Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, bringing together key figures from the visual arts sector, including collectors and artists. “The arts and culture sector is crucial for nation-building,” said Mark Read, director of the gallery. Minister McKenzie expressed his interest in understanding the challenges faced by young artists, demonstrating his commitment to fostering the growth of the arts industry. Discussions focused on financial stability and public-private partnerships, while the evening featured Lady Skollie’s Madi, Madi exhibition, celebrating contemporary South African art.
MASONWABE LAUNCHES NEW RUGS
Rug Collection Celebrates African Heritage Through Contemporary Design
South African artist and designer Masonwabe Ntloko presents Ilifa Lethu, a rug collection that celebrates the richness of African heritage. The title, meaning “Our Inheritance” in isiXhosa, reflects Ntloko’s mission to honor and preserve cultural traditions passed down through generations. Each rug is inspired by African music, dance, folklore, and rituals, showcasing Ntloko’s meticulous craftsmanship. The collection is not just functional but a work of art, inviting a deeper appreciation for African culture. Through Ilifa Lethu, Ntloko encourages a connection to our roots and a celebration of the diversity and beauty of African heritage.
LOBENGULA ADVERTISING’S EVENT
Lobengula Expands Creative Horizons With The Launch Of New Divisions
Lobengula Advertising (LA) celebrates over four years of growth with the launch of two new divisions: LA Films and LA Truth. The expansion was marked at an agency showcase hosted by Mpho Popps, where Creative Directors Kamogelo Nche and Stephanie Rous presented insights into LA’s creative process. Founder Brenda Khumalo stated, “These past four years have been a journey of relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to authentic storytelling.” LA Truth focuses on strategic consulting, while LA Films specializes in cinematic storytelling, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and impactful solutions.
60TH FLEUR DU CAP THEATRE AWARDS
Theatre Industry Celebrates Excellence at Ceremony
The 60th Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards celebrated the best of Cape Town’s theatre at DHL Cape Town Stadium on 23 March. My Fair Lady triumphed with five awards, including Best Production. Leah Mari and Graham Hopkins won for Best Lead Actress and Best Supporting Actor in a Musical, respectively. Dean Balie and Candice van Litsenborgh were honored for their performances in musicals. Metamorphoses earned Best Ensemble and Best Lighting Design. Sylvaine Strike won Best Director for Spring Awakening. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Professor Temple Hauptfleisch, and SoapBoxing received the Innovation in Theatre Award.
DJ LAG AT URBAN MUSIC AWARDS SA
DJ Lag Earns Two Nominations at 2025 Urban Music Awards South Africa
DJ Lag continues to shape the global Gqom movement, securing nominations for Best Gqom Act and Best Collaborationat the 2025 Urban Music Awards South Africa. His 2021 hit “Overdue” featuring Tyla earns him recognition as the awards celebrate 20 years of musical excellence. Set for May 4, 2025, at Heartfelt Arena, Pretoria, the UMAs highlight the best in hip-hop, R&B, house, and more, with winners determined by public vote. Show your support by casting your vote now! This milestone reinforces DJ Lag’s influence as he continues to push Gqom onto the world stage.
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SWEET GULUVA WINS #BBMZANSI
Season 5 Finale Crowns R2 Million Champion
After 72 days of intense gameplay, Big Brother Mzansi Season 5, Umlilo, ended with Sweet Guluva claiming the R2 million grand prize. The season featured unexpected twists, including housemates voting each other out and a dramatic disqualification. The finale saw the top five contestants competing for victory, culminating in a live event hosted by Smash Afrika. A star-studded watch party at Maracana Restaurant featured performances by Kwesta, LeeMcKrazy, and Zee Nxumalo. Sweet Guluva expressed gratitude, saying, “I’m very much grateful. Thank you to everyone who voted for me.” Fans can relive the finale on DStv Catch Up.
CELEBRATE NEW SHOW ON YFM
Club Y Brings Fresh Beats, Rotating DJs, New Energy Every Night
Y introduces Club Y, a dynamic new mix show replacing YTKO, featuring a rotating lineup of top DJs from Monday to Saturday. This format ensures a fresh and unpredictable listening experience. The Club Y roster includes Shakes x Les, Thee Buhle, Ggoldie, and more. To celebrate, Y is hosting a Club Y Launch Party on April 12 at Zone 6 Venue in Soweto, offering an immersive experience blending cyberpunk aesthetics with high-energy music. “Club Y is all about inclusivity with a rebellious twist,” said Y’s content manager, Phindile Ziqubu. Tune in weekdays from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
NANDI MADIDA CHATS TO RUGER
Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida Interview with Ruger
Nigerian Afrobeats star Ruger joins Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1 to discuss his latest single, “Dudu” featuring Kranium, and his new album Blown Boy Ru. He reflects on making deeply personal music, his love for performing live, and how he blends Afrobeats with dancehall. This show’s selection includes new tracks from DJ Maphorisa, Xduppy & Kabza De Small feat. Thatohatsi, Young Stunna & Nkosazana Daughter, Sun-El Musician, Msaki & Karyendasoul, Bayanni, HEVI, and Crayon.
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