The YouthX Festival will return to Constitution Hill in Johannesburg on 4 October 2025 under the theme Dreams Don’t Sleep. The event, backed by Nedbank, is designed to celebrate youth innovation and creativity across different industries. Central to the festival is the YouthX Awards, which will recognise 10 young South Africans making notable contributions in their fields. One overall winner will be announced on the day. This year’s edition will also feature a 12-hour music line-up with performances by DJ Maphorisa, Focalistic, Mellow & Sleazy, Shekhinah, Shamiso, Sun-El Musician and Nasty C. Other acts include DJ 1D and Omagoqa. Media personalities Primo9Teen and Lula Odiba are set to host. Nedbank’s head of youth segment strategy and client value proposition, John Makgato, said the festival aims to provide a platform for young people to gain visibility and support while pursuing their ambitions. The YouthX Festival has grown over the years into a cultural platform celebrating resilience and youth leadership. Tickets are available through Webtickets, with discounted rates for Nedbank clients. Focalistic to perform at ACCES 2025 Showcase Festival Away from YouthX, Focalistic will also perform at the ACCES Showcase Festival in Pretoria on 1 November. The showcase, taking place at 012 Central, forms part of ACCES 2025, a pan-African music business conference organised by the Music In Africa Foundation. His performance is expected to highlight Pretoria’s influence on amapiano and hip hop, and will bring his catalogue to a stage that attracts both African and international music professionals. Before his performance, Focalistic will take part in a keynote fireside chat at the ACCES Conference on 30 October at the Aula Theatre, University of Pretoria. The session, titled From Pitori to the World: A Conversation with Focalistic, will reflect on his journey from Pretoria to international stages. Registration for the conference is free, while tickets for the Showcase Festival are available via the official ACCES website.

South African house music duo Black Motion will host the next edition of their annual Friends of Black Motion (FOBM) festival at the Lion & Safari Park on 20 September 2025. The event follows the group’s four nominations at the 31st South African Music Awards (SAMA 31), where they are in contention for Best Dance Album, Best Collaboration, Best Produced Album and Best Engineered Album. The group, comprising Roy Thabo Mabogwane and Kabelo Koma, said the nominations were a significant milestone in their career, reflecting their recent rebranding efforts. “We started rebranding three years ago and have now been rewarded with four nominations. This is a nod to our music,” Black Motion said. FOBM has been staged as a platform where established and emerging acts perform side by side. The 2025 edition is expected to feature a mix of well-known names and up-and-coming artists. The setting at the Lion & Safari Park is intended to combine live music with the backdrop of South Africa’s natural landscape. The date change to 20 September was prompted by the duo’s recognition at SAMA 31, with organisers saying the decision was made to celebrate the achievement with their audience. Tickets purchased for the original date will remain valid.

Spotify has lifted some restrictions on its free, ad-supported tier in a move aimed at boosting advertising revenue following recent declines. The streaming service confirmed on 16 September that it is “rolling out updates globally” to allow ad-supported users to search for and stream individual tracks. Until now, free accounts on mobile devices were limited to shuffle play. The change has been welcomed by non-paying users, with many sharing positive reactions on social media. However, some Premium subscribers have expressed concern about the value of their paid plans, questioning the incentive to continue paying for features such as AI-generated playlists and lossless audio. The development comes after Spotify reported a 1% year-on-year drop in advertising revenue during the second quarter of 2025, leading to the departure of several senior executives in the advertising division. The company has previously stated its ambition to generate 20% of overall revenue from advertising. The move also follows a broader decline in the US streaming market. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) recently confirmed that “free streaming” revenue fell in the first half of 2025, marking the first such half-year drop in more than a decade. Spotify’s decision contrasts with past experiments that introduced new restrictions for free users, such as temporary limits on lyrics access in 2024. It also diverges from industry proposals such as Sony Music’s 2023 suggestion that ad-supported listening in established markets could become a paid feature. While the easing of restrictions may strengthen Spotify’s advertising appeal in the short term, the long-term impact on its Premium subscriptions remains uncertain. In some markets, free streaming already comes with limits: in Japan, for example, non-mobile ad-supported listening is capped at 15 hours per month. Spotify has yet to indicate whether further changes will be introduced, but the balance between attracting advertisers and retaining paying customers is likely to be a key issue in the months ahead.

Zimbabwe’s Shoko Festival has announced the final headliners for its 2025 Mash Up Night, which will be held at Harare Gardens on 26 September. South African rapper Reason, also known as Sizwe Alakine, and UK hip hop artist OneDa will join the line-up for the festival’s landmark 15th edition. Reason, a South African Music Awards winner, is currently nominated for Best South African Hip Hop Album of the Year. Having built his reputation as a leading figure in hip hop before shifting into the amapiano genre, his Shoko performance will feature elements of both styles. Manchester-based artist OneDa, recognised by the AIM Independent Music Awards as a BBC Introducing “One to Watch”, will also perform. She is expected to collaborate with Zimbabwean artists Yadis and Enhle during her visit. Shoko Festival director Samm Farai Monro, also known as Comrade Fatso, said the inclusion of the two acts reflected the event’s focus on “building an urban culture legacy” while also creating opportunities for international collaboration. They join a bill that already features Zimbabwean producer Take Fizzo, who will present a retrospective showcase with guest performances by urban grooves pioneers Mafriq, Trinity, MC Chita, Mau Mau, Tererai and Nembo Bwoy. Hip hop artist Sane Wav has also been confirmed. Other highlights of Mash Up Night include a collaboration between Kenyan spoken word artist Mufasa and the Arundel School Music Department’s jazz band, choir and orchestra. Zimbabwean acts Segulm, Briza, Paintafresco, Yadis and Enhle will perform new material developed through the festival’s Mashoko Tapes residency programme. Shoko Festival 2025 will open with Comedy Night on 25 September, headlined by comedian King Kandoro, with support from Kenyan satirist Justine Wanda and Zimbabwean performers Mike Chipere, Munya, and Mbongeni Ignatius Ndlovu, as well as DJ Iroq. The festival will close with Peace In The Hood on 28 September in Chitungwiza. The free event will feature performances by Bagga, Young Fantan, 2024 Zim Hip Hop Best Newcomer Runna Rulez, dancehall artist Madedido and Jnr Spragga. Tickets are available online and at Moto Republik in Harare. Prices range from $10 to $20, while Peace In The Hood remains free of charge.

The Market for African Performing Arts (MASA) is calling on artists from Sub-Saharan Africa to apply for the 14th edition of its event in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, from 11 to 18 April 2026. MASA is one of the biggest performing arts market in Africa and a unique space to discover the latest and most relevant productions in music, dance, theatre, circus, street arts, slam poetry, and storytelling. Requirements Must be an African artist/company or from the African diaspora Performances must be adaptable to indoor or public spaces Present a show less than 3 years old, never before presented at MASA Note: The festival is open exclusively to non-African artists and companies. Eligible performance categories: Music Circus Puppetry Storytelling Dance (urban, contemporary, traditional) Comedy Slam poetry Theatre, Young audience (all disciplines) Street arts Maximum group size per discipline (including crew and manager): Music, dance, circus, puppetry, theatre: Eight people Comedy, slam poetry, storytelling: Three people The application file must include : A short presentation of the creation (max 10 lines). Three high-definition stage photos. A biography of the artist or company with key works highlighted. A teaser video (5 to 7 minutes). A full video recording of the show. A technical sheet specifying : Stage dimensions Lighting setup Number of performers Setup and takedown duration Weight and volume of sets/props Cost of the performance A cast list including : Email and phone number of the group’s contact person Departure city (only one per group) List of all members and their roles Name of the stage manager or technical contact How to apply Applications must be submitted online through the official MASA website here. Results announcement: The list of selected groups will be published no later than 16 December. Email candidatures@masa-ci.org or candidatures.festival@masa-ci.org for more information about this call.

Apple Music has launched its Alpha playlist across Africa, with Nigerian singer Ayra Starr as the debut cover star. The playlist will highlight female artists from across the continent, showcasing their contributions to different genres. Each week, Apple Music will feature a new African female artist. Ayra Starr said the initiative represented “inclusion, a win and more visibility” for women in music. She added that the recognition was significant for artists whose work is often overlooked. She also offered advice to emerging female musicians: “Don’t be ashamed to rebuild, don’t be afraid of failing. Keep reinventing yourself and keep rebranding till you get it right … Don’t be attached to the idea of perfection, it’s an illusion.” Starr’s latest single, ‘Hot Body’, produced by Ragee and the Elements, is the first release to feature on the playlist. Other artists included are Ghanaian R&B and Afro-Fusion singer Gyakie and Nigerian newcomer Salle. Gyakie described Alpha as “an important spotlight on the incredible music women across Africa are already creating,” while Salle said the playlist “offers a platform where we can finally shine on our own terms.”

The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is seeking to appoint a dynamic and experienced Project Coordinator  to support the implementation of the soon to be launched National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA). This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly organised individual to contribute to a large-scale national project that will create meaningful employment in the creative sector. The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the African creative sector, with a primary focus on music. While our foundational work supports a vibrant and sustainable music industry, our mandate has expanded to encompass the wider cultural and creative industries (CCIs). MIAF manages the leading online platform for the African music sector, www.musicinafrica.net, and leverages this expertise to foster growth and connectivity across the creative economy. NEFCISA is a national work placement programme designed to address unemployment and skills gaps in the local creative sector. The facility will identify skills demand, recruit, train, and place a minimum of 1 000 workers into host organisations across South Africa for a period of 10 months. Key responsibilities The Project Coordinator will be an integral part of the project team and will be responsible for the following: Work closely with the project manager in performing the daily management of the project, in line with the approved project plan. Assist in the recruiting, liaison  and provision of support to host organisations and training partners across South Africa. Assisting with the recruitment, screening, and matching of workers to host organisations. Coordinating project activities, including training sessions, workshops, and monitoring visits.  Ensuring the accurate recording of worked time and reconciliation processes through dedicated team members placed in host organisations. Collaborating with marketing, administration and other departments. Conducting field visits to host organisations to monitor progress, verify data, and provide on-the-ground support. Assisting with data collection, reporting, and maintaining accurate records for the Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework. Preparing regular internal reports on project activities, challenges, and successes. Providing administrative and logistical support to the project team. Acting as a key point of contact for project stakeholders, addressing queries and ensuring smooth communication. Requirements A relevant tertiary qualification in Project Management, Arts/Cultural Management, Development Studies, or a related field. Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in project coordination or implementation, preferably within the cultural and creative industries or the development sector. Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including NGOs, businesses, and communities. Experience in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and report writing is highly advantageous. Demonstrated leadership experience. Skills and competencies: Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written). Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work. Willingness to travel nationally. A valid driver’s licence. How to apply Interested candidates should submit their application using this application form here. Please do not email your CV. Applications not submitted through the online form will not be considered.

The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is seeking to appoint a dynamic and experienced Project Officer to support the implementation of the National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA). This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly organised individual to contribute to a large-scale national project that will create meaningful employment in the creative sector, accurate records, and facilitating clear communication between stakeholders. The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the African creative sector, with a primary focus on music. While our foundational work supports a vibrant and sustainable music industry, our mandate has expanded to encompass the wider cultural and creative industries (CCIs). MIAF manages the leading online platform for the African music sector, www.musicinafrica.net, and leverages this expertise to foster growth and connectivity across the creative economy. The National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA) is a national work placement programme designed to address unemployment and skills gaps in the local creative sector. The facility will identify skills demand, recruit, train, and place a minimum of 1 000 workers into host organisations across South Africa for a period of 10 months. Key responsibilities The Project Officer will provide essential administrative and logistical support to the NEFCISA project team. This role is key to ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the project, maintaining accurate records, and facilitating clear communication between stakeholders. Provide administrative and logistical support for project activities, including workshops, training sessions, and meetings. Assist with the data collection and record-keeping for the project's Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework. Help maintain accurate databases for host organisations, workers, and training partners. Serve as a contact point for queries from host organisations and placed workers, escalating issues when necessary. Assist in preparing and distributing internal reports, minutes, and project updates. Support the Project Coordinator and Manager with scheduling, travel arrangements, and document preparation. Requirements and skills A relevant tertiary qualification or diploma in Business Administration, Project Management, Arts and Culture, or a related field. At least 1-2 years of experience in an administrative, coordination, or support role. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). A keen interest in or previous exposure to the cultural and creative industries (CCIs). Experience with data capture and basic reporting Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work. Willingness to travel nationally. A valid driver’s licence. How to apply Interested candidates should submit their application using this application form here. Applications that do not comply with the above requirements will not be considered.

Copenhagen-based Togolese musician Alain Dodji Apaloo has won the Danish Music Award (DMA) in the category Danish Blues Release of the Year 2025 for his album Naked. The award citation described the project as “a meeting between West African blues and Mississippi Delta country blues, delivered in a minimalist and authentic style”. Apaloo was among 12 artists nominated across three categories in this year’s Danish Music Awards Blues segment. Following nominations from the Danish blues community, an expert jury selected four finalists in each category, with Apaloo emerging as the winner. His group, the Apipipo Band, was also nominated in the Blues Live Band category. In his acceptance speech, Apaloo expressed gratitude to supporters, band members, his record label Heartcore Records, and Mojo Blues Bar in Copenhagen. “It is a huge honour to receive such a fine prize,” he said. DMA Blues 2025 was organised by TEMPI, JazzDanmark, ROSA and Turbinen, in collaboration with Jysk Blues Netværk. The event was supported by Randers Festuge, the Danish Artist Union and the Danish Musicians’ Union.

The South African Music Awards (SAMAs) have announced the nominees for the Rest of Africa Award ahead of the 31st edition of the ceremony. The category recognises non-South African artists whose music has gained significant traction across the continent. This year’s nominees are Ayra Starr (The Year I Turned 21), Bensoul (The Party & After Party), Wizkid (Morayo), Tems (Born in the Wild), and Fireboy DML (Adedamola). The Rest of Africa Award was established to highlight music that transcends national borders and contributes to a shared African soundscape. Nigerian artists make up the majority of this year’s shortlist. The 2024 award went to Zimbabwean artist Edgar Muzah for his album Son of a Tribe (Royalty Edition), which combined African rhythms with global influences. “The win by Edgar was  more than an award-it was validation that the Rest of Africa Award truly reflects the  vibrancy and innovation of music from across the continent,” SAMAs spokesperson Unati Gwija said. “The interest in this category is  growing, and the domination by Nigerian musicians this year might just be a humdinger of  things to come. “On behalf of RiSA and the SAMA office, we extend heartfelt thanks to the judges, whose  tireless listening and deliberation honour the integrity of this process. Their work ensures  that the Rest of Africa category is celebrated with the respect it deserves,” Below are the 2025 Rest of Africa nominees: Ayra Starr (Nigeria) Bensoul (Kenya) Wizkid (Nigeria) Tems (Nigeria) Fireboy DML (Nigeria)

Apple Music has announced that more than 200 artists from across Africa have appeared on the Shazam Global Top 200 chart over the past year, highlighting the continent’s growing influence on global music trends. According to the platform, 12 African songs reached the Shazam Global Top 10 between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025. These include tracks such as ‘With You’ (ft. Omah Lay) by Davido (Nigeria), ‘Venus’ by Faceless & Serøtonin (Nigeria), ‘Show Me Love’ by WizTheMc (South Africa), and ‘Shake It To The Max (FLY) [Remix]’ by MOLIY (Ghana). Other notable entries include ‘NINAO’ by GIMS (DRC/France), ‘Ngishutheni’ by South African artists Goon Flavour, Master KG and Eemoh, ‘My Darling’ by Chella (Nigeria), ‘Laho’ by Shallipopi (Nigeria), and ‘Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche’ by Gentleman Mike Ejeagha & His Trio (Nigeria). Also featured were ‘Joy Is Coming’ by Fido (Nigeria), ‘Funds’ by Davido featuring ODUMODUBLVCK & Chike, and ‘Biri Marung’ (ft. Sje Konka, Focalistic, DJ Maphorisa, Scotts Maphuma & CowBoii) by South African artists Mr Pilato, Ego Slimflow & Tebogo G Mashego. Of these, three tracks claimed the number one spot on the Shazam Global chart: ‘Shake It To The Max (FLY) [Remix]’, ‘My Darling’, and ‘Biri Marung’. “These insights are not only a testament to the incredible talent that the continent has to offer, but reflect the key role that Shazam has played in surfacing African music to a global audience,” Apple Music’s global head of music Ole Obermann said. “Africa has become a force in setting the standard for today’s most contemporary and innovative sounds, and Shazam users are embracing these songs as they begin their journey to becoming global hits.” Artists also credited the platform with supporting their global reach. “Shazam has been an important music tool for me, helping me connect with people around the world and letting them discover my sound,” Nigerian singer-songwriter Chella said. “’My Darling’ got picked up by many on Shazam, and that pivoted my career shift positively.” “It’s been incredible to see how far ‘Shake It to the Max’ has travelled,” said Ghanaian-American artist MOLIY. “We’re number one in command globally, and Shazam has played a huge part in making that possible. To know that people all over the world are hearing the song, pulling out their phones to find out who I am – that’s wild! It’s taken my music to places I’ve never been and helped me connect with fans from the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe. I’m so grateful.” Since its launch, Shazam has recorded over 100 billion global song recognitions and now serves more than 300 million monthly users. The app has earned a reputation as a leading discovery tool, often predicting breakthrough tracks and emerging artists. Countries with the most entries in the Global Top 200 included Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania and Ghana. Top 10 African songs on the Shazam Global Top 200 (1 July 2024 – 30 June 2025): ‘Shake It To The Max (FLY) [Remix]’ – MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea ‘Biri Marung (Edit)’ [ft. Sje Konka, Focalistic, DJ Maphorisa, Scotts Maphuma & CowBoii] – Mr Pilato, Ego Slimflow & Tebogo G Mashego ‘My Darling’ – Chella ‘Show Me Love’ – WizTheMc & bees & honey ‘Calm Down’ – Rema ‘PUSH 2 START’ – Tyla ‘NINAO’ – GIMS ‘Water’ – Tyla ‘With You’ (feat. Omah Lay) – Davido ‘Jealousy’ (feat. Leemckrazy & Ceeka RSA) – Khalil Harrison & Tyler ICU

Legendary South African vocal group the Mahotella Queens are set to embark on a landmark tour of Japan this August – their first international performances since 2019 – as they celebrate an impressive 61 years in the music industry. Renowned for popularising the mbaqanga sound, the Mahotella Queens have remained one of South Africa’s most beloved musical acts for over six decades, earning acclaim for their energetic performances, hit songs, and global tours. At the age of 83, Hilda Tloubatla, the group’s lead vocalist and the last surviving original member, continues to perform with remarkable vitality. Following the retirement of Mildred Mangxola in 2013 and the passing of Nobesuthu Mbadu in 2021, Tloubatla took it upon herself to ensure the group’s legacy endures. She recruited two younger singers, Amanda Nkosi and Nonku Maseko, training them in the rich history and repertoire of the Queens. The new line-up has brought a fresh energy to their live performances while maintaining the authenticity of their signature style. The group will travel to Hokkaido to perform at the prestigious World Music and Dance Festival from 5 to 11 August, where they are scheduled to perform on the main stage to an audience of 30 000. This marks their first performance in Japan since 2005. The Japan tour is made possible through the support of the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA). “We are excited to partner with the legendary Mahotella Queens in support of their Japan tour,” SAMPRA  CEO Pfanani Lishivha said. “This is part of SAMPRA’s commitment to supporting South African artists performing locally and internationally.” In addition to the festival, the Mahotella Queens will appear at a meet-and-greet session at Tokyo’s Legacy Lounge, perform at the iconic punk venue SCHOOL in Tokyo, and hold a concert in Kobe City, Osaka. With more than 60 years of experience and continued global appeal, the Mahotella Queens remain at the forefront of mbaqanga music, proudly carrying the genre’s vibrant sound to audiences around the world.

The Moshito Music Conference & Exhibition, one of Africa’s leading music business and cultural exchange platforms, has signed a landmark cooperation agreement with the Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage, and the Arts (SNICHA). The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Mahé, Seychelles, on 25 July, marking the beginning of reciprocal cultural and professional exchanges between South Africa and Seychelles. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration between musicians and industry stakeholders from both countries. The South African delegation was led by Moshito board chairperson Stanley Khoza and general manager Sinamandla Kwepile. Also in attendance was Eddie Hatitye, executive director of the Music In Africa Foundation, who joined in a goodwill capacity to support the regional cooperation initiative. On the Seychelles side, the ceremony was attended by SNICHA secretary general David Andre, permanent secretary Cecille Kalebi, as well as senior officials from the country’s arts and creative sectors, including Jimmy Savy (National Arts and Craft Council), Emmanuel d’Offay (Creative Seychelles Agency), Galen Bresson (Intellectual Property and International Events), and Sophia Rosalie (International Relations). The agreement sets the foundation for future collaboration through talent exchanges, policy engagement, and market development. The MoU outlines concrete plans for Seychellois participation in Moshito’s annual event in Johannesburg, where they will feature in showcases, panel discussions, and curated networking opportunities designed to promote their stories and sounds to a broader African audience. Khoza described the signing as a significant step in strengthening regional ties: “This milestone signifies more than just an international collaboration, it is a clear demonstration of Moshito’s role as Africa’s premier music market and of Seychelles’ readiness to take its place in Africa’s fast-growing creative economy. With shared passion and commitment, both institutions are now poised to turn this vision into real opportunities for artists and cultural professionals. Both parties have agreed to a set of key deliverables to be achieved over the next six months as a sign of progressive and cohesive leadership.” As part of the partnership, Moshito and SNICHA will also co-develop long-term training programmes, including workshops on intellectual property rights, music management, and digital skills development for young creatives. The inclusion of Seychelles within the Moshito network is expected to enrich continental creative industry conversations by introducing vital perspectives from the Indian Ocean region. During the visit, the South African delegation praised the depth of talent and creativity they witnessed in Seychelles, while local stakeholders welcomed the partnership as a catalyst for cultural diplomacy, economic diversification, and export growth within the country’s creative industries. Further updates on the implementation of the agreement will be shared in the coming months, with engagements planned at government and industry level to unlock additional collaborative opportunities.

The World Album – International Artists Project, set for release on 1 August 2025, is making history as the first-ever music album to feature multiple artists across the globe. Spearheaded by Brandon Beckwith, a California-based producer and founder of the International Artists Project, the album brings together 200 artists, performing in 93 languages across 121 genres and sub-genres, resulting in a 12.5-hour musical experience. Beckwith began the ambitious search for artists in June 2023, travelling to over 30 countries with the support of a 15-member global A&R team, and completing the process in just 14 months. “The World Album – International Artists Project is the first album in history to feature music artists born or raised in every country of the world,” a statement reads. “The album will showcase 93 languages, 121 music genres/sub-genres and 200 songs, spanning 12 and a half hours in length.” Artists featured on the album will retain 100% ownership and royalties of their work. They are also encouraged to donate half of their earnings to philanthropic efforts in their home country or elsewhere in the world. The album is currently being campaigned for Best Global Music Album at the Grammy Awards and is also under review for three Guinness World Records. In addition, it is being positioned for educational use and global cultural festivals. This release follows the project’s earlier offering, International Artists Project, Part 2, launched in November 2024. That prelude album featured 158 songs representing 80% of the world, with 64 languages and 104 genres, spanning 9.5 hours of music. To foster global connection, participating artists were placed in a private social media group, where they shared their music and culture and collaborated on cross-border compositions. Several in-person gatherings were also held, enabling artists and project staff to build connections beyond the digital space. “I’m happy to be part of this project because it brings more challenges – that someone can change to be their best,” DJ Twaza from Botswana said. “Working with more than 200 artists gives a challenge… so I’m aiming to be the best with the rest.” The album includes songs in a vast array of languages such as Arabic, Dzongkha, Haitian Creole, Sanskrit, Shona, Urdu, Yoruba and Zulu, among many others. It also embraces a wide spectrum of genres including Afrobeats, Bossa Nova, Cloud Rap, Funk, Jazz, Kwaito, Psychedelic Rock, Soca, Techno, Trance, World, and Zouk. With its scope, diversity, and message of global unity, The World Album – International Artists Project is not only a milestone in musical history but also a powerful example of how art can transcend borders. Some of the African artists featured on the album include FR3Q (Nigeria), DJ Twaza (Botswana), Rapha (Ghana), Franklin Fresh (Ivory Coast/Côte d'Ivoire), Mamita Samb (Senegal), Yvy Real (Gabon), SLS (Morocco), Drama T (Burundi) and Terai SC (Zambia), among others. View the full list here. You can pre-save the album here.

The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity in the music industry by renewing its support for the 2025 edition of the Basadi in Music Awards (BIMAs). The event, which celebrates the vital role of women in South Africa’s music landscape, will take place from 1 to 2 August 2025 at the Joburg Theatre. As part of the partnership, SAMRO will sponsor the prestigious Songwriter of the Year award. This category recognises lyrical excellence, originality, and the creative talent behind the country’s most celebrated music. “This sponsorship is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the music industry and the empowerment of female music creators,” SAMRO general manager: marketing and communications Kgomotso Mosenogi said. “We believe that platforms like the Basadi in Music Awards are vital in breaking barriers and creating visibility for women in the creative space.” SAMRO’s support for the awards began in 2022 and has grown steadily since. In 2024, the organisation expanded its involvement by hosting a series of capacity-building workshops tailored for women in the industry. The sessions addressed key areas such as music creation, production, copyright, and promotion, all aimed at equipping women with essential industry knowledge and skills. This initiative forms part of SAMRO’s broader commitment to inclusivity and transformation within the creative sector. In 2021, the organisation commissioned a research report titled Women’s Rights and Representation in the South African Music Sector. The report revealed significant gender disparities, with women often marginalised, excluded from key decision-making roles, and facing systemic barriers to full participation in the industry. Mosenogi added: “Women have long been the heartbeat of our music industry, often writing the stories of our nation behind the scenes. Supporting the Basadi in Music Awards is not just symbolic — it’s a tangible investment in gender equity, recognition, and creative excellence. Through this sponsorship, we reaffirm our commitment to fairness, access, and opportunity for women in the creative sector.”

Grammy Award-winning South African singer Nomcebo Zikode has suffered another setback in her ongoing legal battle against Open Mic Productions, after the Pretoria High Court dismissed her application for leave to appeal a previous ruling, according to local media reports.  Zikode’s legal dispute with the record label dates back to 2022. On 9 May 2025, the court ruled in favour of Open Mic Productions, and on 24 July, it dismissed her attempt to appeal that decision. In court documents obtained by local media, High Court Judge Graham Nasious Moshoana found that the proposed appeal lacked reasonable prospects of success. He also ordered Zikode and her company, Emazulwini Productions, to cover the legal costs of the application. “The enquiry will be limited to the question of whether the appeal, if leave is granted, would have a reasonable prospect of success,” the judgment reads. “Having perused the application for leave to appeal and the written submissions of the parties, and having considered all the grounds presented to challenge the judgment and order, this court is not of the opinion that the appeal has reasonable prospects of success.” The court added that the applicants were to “jointly but severally” pay the legal costs, meaning either party may be held fully responsible for payment. Although the public dispute has often centred on the global hit ‘Jerusalema’ – particularly whether Zikode co-composed the track with producer Master KG – this particular case related to a different song, ‘Bayethe’. Zikode brought the matter to court in an effort to compel Open Mic to fulfil its contractual obligations relating to that release. However, the court criticised her for choosing the wrong legal procedure. Judge Moshoana said that Zikode and Emazulwini Productions had pursued motion proceedings, which are typically reserved for matters involving clear legal issues without factual disputes. “The applicants confidently chose motion proceedings over action proceedings,” the judgment reads. “Impliedly, they did not anticipate a genuine dispute of fact. If they did, they chose to live with the attendant risk. “Motion proceedings are not designed to resolve factual disputes. Zikode alleges Open Mic has not complied, while Open Mic contends it has. This is a genuine dispute of fact. On this basis alone, her request was bound to fail.”

American music icon Lauryn Hill, along with South African stars Lira and Joyous Celebration, will headline the 2025 edition of the DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival, at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg on 20 and 21 September. Celebrated as one of South Africa’s leading lifestyle events, the festival will once again offer a vibrant fusion of flavours and sounds across two stages, showcasing an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary music. Hill, Lira and Joyous Celebration are scheduled to perform on Sunday 21 September. They will be joined by Idols South Africa and SABC Crown Gospel Awards winner Khaya Mthetwa; SAMA Award-winning and NAACP Award-nominated vocalist Mandisi Dyantyis; and rising jazz star Zoë Modiga, who was honoured with Glamour’s Woman of the Year: Musician Game Changer Award and the 2023 Standard Bank Young Artist Award. “This year promises to be an unforgettable experience – from world-class music to bold culinary, art and fashion moments that reflect the rich diversity of our country and heritage,” DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival marketing director Funeka Peppeta said. “It’s incredible to be back at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, and we can’t wait to welcome fans to a weekend that celebrates us all through music and food as we come together during Heritage Month.” About the headliners Lira, an 11-time South African Music Award winner, is known for her genre-defying blend of Afro-pop, R&B and jazz. She will take to the stage alongside Grammy Award-winning singer Lauryn Hill, who will perform a special set in celebration of the 25th anniversary of her groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Hill will be joined by long-time collaborator Wyclef Jean, with special appearances by Zion Marley and YG Marley. Classic tracks such as ‘Doo Wop (That Thing)’, ‘Zion’, and ‘Everything Is Everything’ – part of what Apple Music recently named the Best Album of All Time – are expected to be performed live in what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for South African audiences. In addition to the headline acts, the festival will feature the popular Channel O Dance Stage, where a host of eclectic DJs and performers will deliver high-energy sets. Festival-goers can also enjoy a curated selection of local food, art and fashion throughout the weekend. The main line-up for Saturday, along with full details for the Channel O Dance Stage, will be announced soon. Early bird general admission tickets are available here until 28 July.

A new concert series titled Music for Wildlife has premiered on Trace Global Network TV channels and streaming platforms, blending African music and wildlife conservation in a landmark initiative aimed at raising awareness for the continent’s endangered biodiversity. Produced by conservation NGO Wild Africa in collaboration with immersive music platform OAS1SONE, the series seeks to reach over 350 million viewers in 190 countries, celebrating Africa’s rich musical heritage while spotlighting the urgent need to protect its iconic wildlife and natural spaces. The Music for Wildlife series features more than 150 African artists, each contributing their talent to a unifying message: the time to act for wildlife is now. Backed by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), the project addresses the escalating threats facing Africa’s wildlife, including poaching, habitat loss, climate change, illegal trade, and human-wildlife conflict. According to the WWF’s 2024 Living Planet Index, global wildlife populations have declined by 76% in the past 50 years, underscoring the severity of the crisis. Despite the grim statistics, the project channels hope, harnessing the power of music to drive emotional connection and inspire change. “Africans should care about protecting wildlife,” South African amapiano pioneer Focalistic said. “Wildlife and national parks create a lot of jobs in Africa, such as attracting tourists from across the world. Let’s use music and arts to protect our amazing wildlife.” Airing weekly from July 2025, the 24-minute episodes feature studio performances interwoven with storytelling, visuals, and conservation content. The artist line-up includes some of the continent’s biggest names such as CKay (Nigeria), Feli Nandi (Zimbabwe), Ugandan artists Azawi and Vinka, as well as South African artists Focalistic, Musa Keys, Kamo Mphela, Shekhinah, Zakes Bantwini and Joyous Celebration. Vinka said: “Music for Wildlife has changed how I think about myself in relation to the natural world on which we all depend, and my role in shining a light on the things that threaten it. Music is the most powerful connector in the world.” CKay added: “We Nigerians love our music and culture, but where is the love for our wildlife? Because of habitat loss, poaching, deforestation and the illegal bushmeat trade, we risk losing them forever. Let’s give our wildlife some space and some love.” From Cape Town to Lagos and Harare to Windhoek, artists are lending their voices in solidarity, using music to inspire their fans to reconnect with Africa’s national parks and support conservation efforts. Joyous Celebration founder Lindelani Mkhize said: “Music is our prayer, our power, and our protest. With Joyous Celebration, we raise our voices not just in worship, but in a divine call to protect Africa’s majestic wildlife. This is our sacred duty to preserve the beauty God entrusted to us.” The project is being hailed as a breakthrough in advocacy. Trace Group co-founder and executive chairman Olivier Laouchez said: “Trace is proud to open its global network to host the Music for Wildlife shows that perfectly align with our values and initiatives.”

Hive of Theatre, also known as Hive of the Arts, is set to stage a revival of Kifo Kisimani (Death in the Well), the acclaimed Swahili play by celebrated Kenyan writer and academic Professor Kithaka wa Mberia. The performances will take place on 2 and 3 August 2025, from 2pm to 6pm on both days, at C.U. Shah Jain Bhavan (Chandaria Jain Social Group Auditorium) in Loresho, Nairobi. Set in the fictional community of Butangi, Kifo Kisimani follows the courageous resistance of Mwelusi, a citizen who defies the ruthless dictatorship of Mtemi Bokono. Through sharp dialogue, rich symbolism, and vivid characterisation, the play tackles themes of oppression, betrayal, nationalism, and the human cost of liberation. Mwelusi’s journey becomes a profound reflection on justice, resistance, and sacrifice in the face of authoritarian rule. This revival is directed by Martin Kigondu, a multi-award-winning Kenyan theatre and film director, known for his daring creative approach. Kigondu recently earned accolades for Best Director and Best Producer at the 2024 Kenya Theatre Awards, adding to his previous wins for Best Playwright and Best Actor in a Solo Production. Leading the cast is Gadwill Odhiambo as Mwelusi. A Kalasha award-winning actor and film lecturer, Odhiambo is known for his versatility and recently served as assistant director in The Trial of Dedan Kimathi (2025). Opposite him, Ben Tekee portrays the iron-fisted Mtemi Bokono, bringing a commanding presence honed from years in television, film and theatre. Cosmas Kirui stars as Gege, adding dynamic energy with his seasoned stagecraft, while Gaitan Brian takes on the role of Zigu, drawing from his strong background in set book productions and public performances at the Kenya National Theatre. Far from a traditional set book staging, Hive’s Kifo Kisimani promises fresh direction, bold visuals, and emotional depth, a modern take on a timeless Kenyan classic. “Hive is really about creating work that connects and makes people laugh, feel, reflect—maybe even heal a bit,” producers Wanjiru Njoroge and Shiko Ngure said. “We’re not trying to be perfect, we’re trying to be present, bold and honest.” With this production, Hive of Theatre continues to challenge norms and redefine performance art in Kenya, pushing the boundaries of narrative and experience on the stage. Tickets to event can be purchased via Mookh.

South African music group Ndlovu Youth Choir has announced its 2025 Heritage Tour, a dynamic nationwide celebration of South African music, dance, and unity. Set to take place throughout September, the tour is presented in partnership with Jacaranda FM, the official media partner. Originating from the rural village of Moutse in Limpopo, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has risen to global prominence with its African sound, captivating harmonies, and energetic performances. The ensemble has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, the Berlin Philharmonie, and America’s Got Talent, and has collaborated with international artists such as P!nk and Kygo. Their portfolio also includes work with Disney, Netflix, and humanitarian efforts that have helped raise over $5 million for UNICEF. Now, the Choir is returning home with its most ambitious local project to date. The 2025 Heritage Tour aims to bring the choir’s world-class production to audiences across the country, particularly in small towns and underserved communities. According to organisers, many of the chosen locations will be hosting the choir’s full-scale live show for the very first time. Every performance will offer a lively, interactive experience, combining reimagined traditional African songs, original compositions, and global hits, all performed in the choir’s unmistakable style. “No matter how far our music travels, our hearts remain rooted at home,” Ndlovu Youth Choir artistic director Ralf Schmitt said. “This tour is a tribute to every South African village, town, and city that has shaped us. We want to bring joy, pride, and hope to every stage we step on and we want every South African to be a part of the song.” Tour schedule The Heritage Tour will span ten provinces, with performances scheduled in the following towns and cities: Meropa Casino, Polokwane – 5 September Ben Viljoen, Groblersdal – 6 September Emnotweni Casino, Mbombela – 7 September Hoërskool Rustenburg, Rustenburg – 12 September The Ridge Casino, Emalahleni – 14 September Snowflake, Potchefstroom – 16 September Soweto Theatre, Soweto – 17 September St Andrew’s School, Welkom 18 September Northern Cape Theatre, Kimberley – 19 September Sand du Plessis Theatre (2 shows), Bloemfontein – 20 September EZenne Rousseau (2 shows), Sasolburg – 21 September The tour will conclude with a Heritage Day celebration at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on 24 September.