This week’s #LANews Radar newsletter covers major moves in music, media, and art—from DJ Sabby’s radio reign to Black Sherif’s IRON BOY, Lekompo’s big label debut, and Zinoleesky’s Most Wanted. Plus, global wins for Kenyan TV and Captain’s bold Cinderella visual.
PHOBLA & PRINCE ZULU SIGN DEAL
UMG Signs Phobla On the Beat and Prince Zulu, Champions of Lekompo Sound
Universal Music Group Southern Africa has signed Phobla On the Beat and Prince Zulu—the first Lekompo artists to join a major label in South Africa. Hailing from Ga-Mabotja in Polokwane, the duo rose to prominence with their hit “Khiyelane Hala Hit (The Double P) Remix.” Their music, rooted in Limpopo culture, blends joy, rhythm, and healing. “Lekompo is a culture from Limpopo… it can heal your soul,” says Prince Zulu. UMG sees this as a groundbreaking move to elevate Lekompo and amplify its youthful energy and cultural richness across South Africa and beyond.
CAPTAIN RELEASES NEW SINGLE
Captain Reimagines Cinderella Through Gqom Power with Danger and Campmasters Collab
Captain’s latest single Cinderella has landed, bringing fresh fire to the Gqom scene. Released on April 4th, the track reinterprets the classic Cinderella tale through heavy percussion, bold vocal chops, and an empowering rhythm. Featuring Danger and Campmasters, Cinderella captures the grit, transformation, and triumph of the underdog with signature Gqom energy. “Cinderella” is now streaming across all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Fans can also watch the official music video on YouTube, which delivers a vivid visual twist on the Cinderella narrative in true Captain style.
ZINOLEESKY RELEASES NEW SINGLE
Zinoleesky Drops Bold Final Single Most Wanted Ahead of Gen Z Album Release
Zinoleesky has officially dropped Most Wanted, the final lead single from his upcoming debut album Gen Z, released April 4 and produced by longtime collaborator Niphkeys. The track blends afrobeats, trap, and dancehall, capturing Zinoleesky’s evolution and confidence as he enters a new era. “Most Wanted” is lyrically sharp and rhythmically charged, reflecting his streetpop roots while embracing global ambitions. It marks a powerful preview of the Gen Z album, set to arrive later in April—ushering in a defining moment for one of afropop’s most exciting and authentic rising voices.
BOTSWANA AT RMB LATITUDES
RMB Latitudes Spotlights Botswana’s Evolving Contemporary Art Ecosystem in 2025
The 2025 RMB Latitudes Art Fair will spotlight Botswana through its International Galleries Platform, offering accessible exposure to artists and galleries across Africa and the diaspora. “Curatorially, the Botswana focus will grapple with the historical and ideological narratives of borders,” says curator Boitumelo Makousu. Participants include TBP Artist Collective, ARC Botswana, ReCurate, Banana Club, The Space Botswana, and Ora Loapi. Their collective showcase reflects a growing divergence from traditional heritage motifs toward contemporary assertion. “By shining a light on Botswana’s creative voices,” says RMB’s Linda Kachingwe-Sisya, “we hope to contribute to helping talent gain broader visibility.”
CROCS RELAUNCHED THE BAE CLOG
Crocs Brings Back Bold Bae Clog With Designers, DJs and Star Power
Crocs has officially relaunched the iconic Bae Clog, returning with its signature platform and bold design—now featuring a jibbitable backstrap for maximum personalization. To celebrate, Crocs hosted a vibrant event spotlighting South Africa’s top fashion creatives and influencers. In partnership with Stadio Fashion School, young designers styled their collections with the Bae Clog, showing off the silhouette’s versatility. Performances by Amapiano star Young Stunna and Ms Cosmo lit up the night, underscoring Crocs’ commitment to individuality and self-expression. Available in Black, White, Orangesicle, and Dragonfruit, the Bae Clog proves that bold is back—and it’s here to stay.
HANDMADEAFRICA 2025 DATES
Capitec handmadeAFRICA Returns with Bold New Design Markets in 2025
Following a strong debut in 2024, Capitec handmadeAFRICA returns with new events, over 40 brands, and an expanded platform for African creativity. “Afro-optimism is high on the creative agenda,” says Creative Director Garreth van Niekerk. Launching at Decorex Cape Town (5–8 June) and Johannesburg (24–27 July), the showcase includes the new Capitec handmadeAFRICA Design MRKT. “We are excited to once again support African creativity,” says Capitec’s Asha Patel. A grand finale hits Oxford Parks in November, transforming the area into a luxury shopping experience. “Partnering with Capitec handmadeAFRICA allows us to expand our vision,” adds Decorex’s Sarah Jardim.
COTTON FEST LINEUP REVEAL
Cotton Fest 2025 Brings Music, Fashion, and Sport Together In One Space
The sixth edition of Cotton Fest returns on April 26th at The Station in Joburg. With over 100 artists, the festival blends urban music, fashion, and sports across three dynamic stages: Cotton Fest Stage, Bunker Stage (Play Energy), and The Lot Stage (Jägermeister). Confirmed acts include A-Reece, Cassper Nyovest, Kabza De Small, and Young Stunna. Additional attractions feature live skateboarding, art installations, and a fashion retail store. Powered by Coke Studio, Nedbank Youth X, and others, Phase 2 tickets are now available at Webtickets, CottonFest.co.za, and Pick ‘n Pay.
BET AFRICA AT THE PINK TABLE
The Pink Table Launch Unites Besties in Sparkling Celebration of Global Sisterhood
BET joined Brutal Fruit Spritzer for the dazzling launch of The Pink Table at Cavalli Wine Estate, a global movement celebrating women’s connection, joy, and pride. “The Pink Table event was a dazzling celebration of female empowerment and glamour,” said BET’s Leddi G. Hosted by Bonang Matheba, the event featured music from Ami Faku and storytelling by Mama Gcina. Brand Director Candice van den Bosch traced the brand’s journey from Ruby Apple to “Saturday Spritzers.” With Paris Fashion Week 2025 on the horizon, The Pink Table promises a global invitation to unforgettable, authentic moments.
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ZANELE POTELWA WINS AWARD
Zanele Potelwa Named ‘Next Big Thing’ in SA Entertainment Rise
Award-winning TV and radio personality Zanele Potelwa continues to rise, recently being honoured as ‘The Next Big Thing’ at the South African Style Awards. In 2023, she hosted the Metro FM Music Awards Black Carpet, voiced the 30th South African Music Awards, and graced the SAFTAs red carpet—all in gowns by Gert-Johan Coetzee, Otiz Seflo, and Sasa Thabethe. Zanele said, “I feel so blessed, God has been so good to me.” Beyond her media work, she’s launching a clothing line and ‘Mentorship Meetup’ event, solidifying her influence in entertainment and her commitment to uplifting others.
DJ SABBY BACK ON METRO FM
DJ Sabby Reigns Supreme as Best Mornings Tops Metro FM for Third Year
DJ Sabby continues his winning streak as Best Mornings leads Metro FM’s breakfast slot for a third consecutive year, engaging over 2.1 million listeners daily. “Hosting the breakfast show on Metro FM for the third year is both an honour and a humbling experience,” says DJ Sabby. The show remains the SABC’s highest-grossing, thanks to exclusive interviews, CSI initiatives like the Blanket Drive, and youth-driven activations like the School Tour. Beyond radio, Sabby shines on TV and international stages, all while championing African music. His blend of professionalism and purpose marks him as a standout industry leader.
RUSHLAKE X D&R STUDIOS COLLAB
Rushlake Media and D&R Studios Partner to Distribute Kenyan Stories Globally
Rushlake Media has partnered with Kenya’s D&R Studios to distribute its acclaimed content library across North America and Europe. Led by Eugene Mbugua, D&R Studios is known for hits like Sol Family and Young Rich, reflecting Kenya’s dynamic cultural landscape. “We trust that Rushlake Media does that for us,” says Mbugua, noting their role in reaching global markets. Rushlake’s CEO Philipp Hoffmann adds, “We are proud to grow our portfolio with content that speaks to the vibrancy and diversity of contemporary African life.” This partnership marks a major step in exporting African stories to wider international audiences.
BLACK SHERIF ON AFRICA NOW RADIO
Black Sherif Reflects on IRON BOY, Amakye Dede and Artistic Purpose
Ghanaian hip-hop star Black Sherif joined Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1 to discuss his latest single “Sacrifice” and upcoming album IRON BOY. “Since childhood, I’ve been an artist,” he said, recalling his early creative explorations. Sherif paid homage to Amakye Dede, noting their unexpected family connection. On the power of collaboration, he said, “Everything we’ve done is a collection of heads.” Speaking on Akon’s praise, Sherif shared, “It makes me want to go inside more.” IRON BOY, he says, encourages listeners to “be something”—a message of self-activation and unseen aspects of success.
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