From global album drops and rising rap stars to major festival reveals and unfortunate tour cancellations, this week’s roundup captures the pulse of music culture across continents.
MTHUTHUZELI TAKES THE LEAD
De Mthuda Drops Bold Global Sound With Amapiano Roots
April marked a defining moment as De Mthuda ignited the streets with the drop of Diwa Kae, a genre-blending single from his highly anticipated album Mthuthuzeli. Fusing Latin flair with Amapiano soul, and featuring Kabza De Small, Young Stunna, Mkeyz, Mckenzie, and Mthunzi, the track signaled a bold sonic evolution. Mthuthuzeli cemented De Mthuda’s legacy as an innovator, weaving Afro Jazz, Maskandi, and global sounds into a cohesive narrative. Far from a passing wave, this was movement in motion — a musical shift that pushed the genre forward and underscored De Mthuda’s mission to reshape the future, globally.
TOUCHLINE STRIKES GOLD SOLO
“I’ll Always Have Me” Goes Gold, Celebrating Hip-Hop Resilience
South African rapper Touchline officially earned gold status with his soulful single I’ll Always Have Me, certified by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) after surpassing 25,043 units sold. Produced by Kaizer Beats and featuring Veena, the introspective anthem from his acclaimed album S.O.O.N 2 resonated deeply for its themes of resilience, identity, and self-worth. As an independent artist, Touchline’s milestone is a powerful affirmation of his lyrical authenticity and township roots. This achievement not only marks a career high for him but also celebrates the emotional depth and growing influence of South African hip-hop on the national music landscape.
DAVIDO DROPS ‘5IVE’ ALBUM
Global Collaborations Shine On Genre-Defying Fifth Studio Project Release
Afrobeats icon Davido has released his fifth studio album, 5IVE, a genre-blending, 17-track project featuring global stars like Victoria Monét, Chris Brown, Becky G, and Musa Keys. The standout single “Offa Me” with Monét fuses Afrobeats, R&B, and soul, complemented by a vibrant KLVDR-directed video. 5IVE reflects Davido’s artistic growth and cross-cultural influence, with sounds ranging from Reggaeton to Dancehall. Celebrating its launch, Davido embarked on a five-city underplay tour, delivering intimate performances in cities like London and LA. With 5IVE, he cements his global appeal while honouring his African roots through sonic innovation and star-studded collaborations.
WHYDEE RETURNS WITH ‘PRONTO’
British-Nigerian Rapper Drops Ambitious New Track On April 17
British-Nigerian rap sensation WhyDee follows his breakout hit Jack In The Box with his bold new single Pronto, set for release on April 17, 2025. With over 3 million streams and viral acclaim, WhyDee fuses sharp lyricism, high-energy charisma, and jazz-infused production to reflect the ambition and urgency of today’s youth. Produced by ProdbyWillzz and engineered by Tweeko, Pronto is an anthemic declaration of hustle. Already co-signed by BBC 1Xtra and GQ, and having performed at Reading & Leeds and the O2 Arena, WhyDee continues to prove he’s not just viral—he’s here to stay.
NEW VOICE TAKES STAGE
Campbell Meas Wins For Bold, Immersive Theatre Breakthrough Play
Campbell Meas was named the 2025 National Playwright Competition winner for her powerful play Vakavigwa (Burials/They were buried), set to premiere at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda from 26 June–6 July. Supported by HEINEKEN Beverages, the competition nurtures emerging talent with mentorship and funding. Meas’ multimedia-infused script impressed judges with its ambitious storytelling and layered stagecraft. Once titled The Mechanics of Play, the work evolved through the creative process. Joining a notable alumni group, Meas received R20,000 and production support. Finalists Thozama Busakwe, Naledi Malotana, and Lwanda Sindaphi were also celebrated for their compelling contributions to South African theatre.
KKNK HONOURS THEATRE EXCELLENCE
Annie+Helen Leads Nominations As New Voices Shine Bright
The 2025 Kanna Awards nominations have been announced following the 29th KKNK, with Annie+Helen leading the pack with ten nods. The drama about Helen Keller marked Wordsmith’s Theatre Factory’s return to KKNK and received nominations for Best Debut and Best Theatre Production, among others. Thirteen-year-old Judi Hattingh earned dual nominations for her standout performance. Debut comedy KUNS and satire Moedswil en Muitery followed closely with nine nominations each, showcasing the strength of new voices and ensemble casts. With over 100 productions reviewed, the awards highlight an exceptional year of innovation, talent, and literary excellence on the South African stage.
LEBO M LIVE LEGACY
An Unforgettable Night Bridging Continents Through African Music Excellence
On 18 April 2025, Cape Town witnessed a historic musical celebration as Grammy-winning icon Lebo M headlined his first-ever live concert at GrandWest’s Grand Arena. Marking 30 years since the legendary “Nants’ ingonyama” chant, the concert featured special guest Hans Zimmer and a stellar lineup including MiCasa, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Ndlovu Youth Choir. The event capped a week of activities honoring African creativity and empowering emerging talent. Celebrating nearly 40 years in music and film, Lebo M’s emotionally charged performance paid tribute to his global influence, showcasing the enduring power of African music on the world stage.
KEYSHIA COLE TOUR CANCELLED
Scheduling Conflicts Force Cancellation Of Long-Awaited South Africa Show
The Keyshia Cole Live in South Africa tour has been officially cancelled following continued scheduling conflicts with the artist’s team. Despite previous postponements—including one after the LA fire tragedy—and a recent confirmation video, the artist’s request for another delay prompted promoters to cancel the show entirely. The decision comes as a disappointment to devoted South African fans who had shown unwavering excitement and support. Organisers expressed regret, citing logistical limitations as the reason for ending efforts to reschedule. Ticket holders will receive direct communication about refunds through the official ticketing platform, with additional support available via email.
COTTON FEST 2025 UNLEASHED
Massive Artist Lineup Drops Ahead Of Jozi Festival Kickoff
Cotton Fest 2025 has revealed its full artist lineup ahead of the April 26th showdown at The Station in Johannesburg. Featuring over 100 artists across hip hop, amapiano, R&B, house, and more, the festival unites culture through music, fashion, and sport. Headliners include A-Reece, Cassper Nyovest, Kabza De Small, DJ Zinhle, and Shekhinah. Fans can also expect skateboarding battles, fashion showcases, custom activations, and vibrant food vendors. Cotton Fest is more than a festival—it’s a cultural movement powered by major sponsors and broadcast by MTV Base and Y.
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OLIVETHEBOY TAKES THE MIC
Africa Now Radio Spotlights Rising Star And Hot Tracks
On April 18, Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida featured Ghanaian Afrobeats sensation Olivetheboy as its cover star. Joining via FaceTime, he discussed his new single “Bend” featuring Sarkodie, his EP Out of the Blue, and the personal roots of his artistry in Konongo. The episode offered a candid look into how the young artist is navigating early fame. In addition to the exclusive interview, Nandi unveiled the week’s five hottest African tracks, including music from Davido & Victoria Monét, F3line, Rexxie, Murumba Pitch, and Lady Amar. The show aired globally on Apple Music 1, spotlighting African music’s freshest talent.
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