From iconic festival moments and cross-continental collabs to genre-blurring new drops and posthumous tributes, this edition of #LANews Radar rounds up the music stories shaking up Africa and beyond.
AGATCHU RELEASES NEW SINGLE
Agatchu releases genre-blurring new single Maradona ahead of sophomore EP launch
French-Angolan rising star Agatchu steps into the spotlight with Maradona, his first solo single of 2025. Blending afrobeats, R&B, and cinematic storytelling, the track explores “the intricate dynamics and vulnerabilities we all experience in relationships.” Sung in English, Yoruba, and French, Maradona reflects Agatchu’s multicultural identity and is co-written with Nigerian artist Pekeys. Produced by longtime collaborator AZNVR, it follows the success of One For Me with Ya Levis. With support from Spotify, Apple Music, BBC 1Xtra, and more, Agatchu continues to push creative boundaries as he builds toward his highly anticipated sophomore EP, set for release in spring 2025.
ISGUBHU’S APRIL COVER STAR
Afamefuna becomes Apple Music’s latest Isgubhu cover star with powerful debut
Kenyan-Nigerian producer Afamefuna has been named Apple Music’s latest Isgubhu cover star. “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity,” he says, highlighting the four Kenyan vocalists featured on his debut EP i.r.l. Currently based in Brooklyn, Afamefuna began producing after discovering Chief Keef and Young Chop. His EP blends dancefloor-driven R&B with psychedelic synths and bold basslines, spotlighting Kenya’s rising stars. He also curated tracks for Isgubhu’s playlist, saying, “They represent what people are listening to in the Nairobi music scene at the moment.” The feature celebrates East Africa’s vibrant electronic and R&B scene, rooted in local expression and global sound.
RIKY RICK ON RAP LIFE AFRICA
Rap Life Radio honors Riky Rick with posthumous album Boss Zonke Forever
Apple Music’s Rap Life Radio, hosted by Ebro Darden, celebrates the enduring legacy of Riky Rick through his posthumous album Boss Zonke Forever. Ebro and Africa Now Radio host Nandi Madida reflect on the late icon’s cultural impact and storytelling. Curated by Riky’s close collaborators and family, the 17-track project features Cassper Nyovest, Elaine, 25K, Blxckie, Focalistic, Dee Koala, Gemini Major, and Nia Pearl. The spotlight track “Cishe Ngaposta” exemplifies his high-life energy. Also featured: ODUMODUBLVCK’s “LEGOLAS” and Black Sherif’s “Body,” showcasing the evolving sounds of African hip-hop and the deep influence Riky Rick continues to wield.
THE 471 LAUNCHES AT ARCHIVE
Archive and New Balance launch 471 with Cape Town customization experience
Archive and New Balance launched the versatile 471 sneaker at a women-focused breakfast event in Cape Town. Hosted at the Bree Street flagship store, the celebration included a paint, sip, and customize session led by STVCKD founder Fatima Koila, with music by DJs QVANA and Autumn and DIY mocktails on offer. Inspired by 1970s running heritage, the 471 blends performance roots with modern lifestyle wearability. Rather than reissuing a retro model, it delivers what today’s consumers want in a fresh silhouette. The sneaker made its first appearance courtside at the NBA Paris Games on Cameron Brink.
APRIL ARTWORKS ON SHOW
Strauss & Co launches April ART auction exploring labour through diverse artworks
Strauss & Co’s April ART Timed Online Auction runs from 11–22 April 2025, with bidding open across Easter weekend. The sale explores themes of work across industries through portraiture, landscape, still life, and sculpture. Highlights include Sam Nhlengethwa’s A Tired Miner, honouring South Africa’s mining communities, and Diederick During’s Working with Spade and Fork. The auction coincides with Working Life in South Africa: Gerard Sekoto & Lena Hugo in Johannesburg. Featured artists include Marco Cianfanelli, Ayanda Mabulu, William Kentridge, Mari Vermeulen-Breedt, and J.H. Pierneef, offering collectors a range of expressive works rooted in labour, memory, and cultural observation.
KKNK 2025 ENDS WITH A BANG
KKNK 2025 delivers record-breaking attendance and artistic excellence across all venues
The 29th KKNK, held from 1 to 6 April in Oudtshoorn, surpassed expectations with strong attendance across venues and free public areas. “This year stands out and compares exceptionally well to the best of our pre-pandemic festivals,” said Hugo Theart, KKNK CEO and Artistic Director. Audience feedback praised the high artistic standard, affirming the festival’s inclusive programming. “It seems that the strategy we have implemented over the past few years is yielding fruitful results,” Theart noted. Planning is already underway for the 30th edition, set for 28 March–4 April 2026. KKNK 2025 was proudly sponsored by Absa and various partners.
THE ULTRA COUNTDOWN BEGINS
ULTRA South Africa marks 10th anniversary with record-breaking momentum and global stars
The countdown is on as ULTRA South Africa gears up for its milestone 10th anniversary, lighting up Cape Town on 9 May and Johannesburg on 10 May 2025. With a blockbuster lineup featuring Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, KSHMR, Shimza, and DBN GOGO, this year’s edition promises unmatched energy across Main, RESISTANCE, Groove Room, and Clubhouse stages. “The 10th anniversary of ULTRA South Africa is a celebration of resilience, community and culture,” says organiser Shaun Duwe. Early ticket sales broke records, underlining massive demand. Tickets are still available for what’s set to be a landmark festival event.
KEYSHIA COLE ADDS LOCAL TALENT
Keyshia Cole announces Elaine and DJs Akio and Nkosh for upcoming South Africa tour
Grammy-nominated R&B star Keyshia Cole is set to headline her Live in South Africa tour this April, with powerhouse vocalist Elaine announced as a special guest. Known for her soul-stirring hits like “Love” and “Heaven Sent,” Cole will perform in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town from 26 to 28 April 2025. Elaine, celebrated for her smooth vocals and international acclaim, brings added star power to the lineup, alongside DJs Akio and Nkosh. Expect three nights of world-class performances and high-energy vibes. Limited tickets are still available via TicketPro for what promises to be a standout moment on South Africa’s music calendar.
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NFVF APPOINTS NEW CEO
Vincent Blennies appointed CEO of NFVF, promises stability and strategic transformation
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) has appointed Mr. Vincent Blennies as CEO, effective 14 April 2025. With over 25 years of C-suite experience across healthcare, telecoms, and finance, he brings expertise in governance, strategy, and stakeholder engagement. “Mr. Blennie’s extensive executive management experience… will support the NFVF’s efforts to strengthen its impact,” said Council Chairperson Saudah Hamid. Holding a Master’s in Technology and Innovation, Blennies is well-versed in public and regulatory sectors. His leadership is expected to drive stability, institutional development, and inclusive growth, aligning the NFVF with industry shifts and elevating South Africa’s creative economy.
ODUMODUBLVCK ON AFRICA NOW RADIO
ODUMODUBLVCK discusses new single, mixtape, and upcoming album with Nandi Madida
Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK joined Nandi Madida via FaceTime on Apple Music 1 to discuss his latest single “LEGOLAS” and upcoming projects. He shared insights on his mixtape THE MACHINE IS COMING, revealing his ambition to push boundaries in Nigeria’s hip-hop scene. Reflecting on the impact of his father’s passing, he said, “Since then I’ve literally been doing everything he had been doing.” He also spoke about collaborations on tracks “TOY GIRL” and “GASOLINE,” and previewed his forthcoming album, emphasizing that the mixtape is just a taste of what’s to come. “The machine is coming, and the world has to brace themselves.”
COMICS CHOICE AWARD WINNERS
Comics Light Up Lyric Theatre at 2025 Savanna Comedy Awards Show
South Africa’s comedy elite gathered at The Lyric Theatre for the 12th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards, a night of laughs, tributes, and standout performances. Hosted by Nina Hastie and Carvin H Goldstone, the event featured bold roasts, heartfelt nods, and a musical chutney parody. Celeste Ntuli claimed Comedian of the Year, with Robby Collins earning two major wins. A moving moment came with the renaming of The Newcomer category to “The Eb Award,” honouring the late Ebenhaezer Dibakwane. “We truly believe in the power of humour to unite South Africans,” said Kayla Hendricks of Savanna Premium Cider.
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