south african music - Bubblegum Club

Saxoxa Ingxoxo Yak’dala noMdlali Wesiginci uBafo uMadala Kunene

Ngomgqibelo, uMadala Kunene wayedlala isigingci nesitweletwele sakhe emkhosini obizwa ngokuthi yiFolklore Festival, owa ubanjwe eConstitution Hill, eWomen’s Jail. Ugubha iminyaka engama shumamantathu enkululeko, kwakuwusuku lwezizukulwane zalelizwe, kugcwele yonke iminhlobo yemindeni. Eminye yayingajwayelekile, eminye eyendabuko, eminye midala, eminye mincane, eminye inemithunzi eminingi. Yonke ihlanganiswa yilelizwe lethu elihluphayo. Elilashwa ngomculo. Ngabantu abafana noMadala Kunene. Abadlala iziginci kube…

Surprisingly Smooth // The Filah Lah Lah x Heineken Silver Effect

Filah Lah Lah, a talented singer-songwriter from Pretoria, South Africa, is an artist whose expression of music is shaped by introspection, perched at the intersection of nostalgic soul and futuristic R&B.  Her sound has sirened the attention of many brands attuned to the pulse of culture—most recently, Heineken Silver, otherwise known as the “Surprisingly Smooth”…

A Q&A with Moonchild Sanelly on Freedom Fighting and Pussy Politics

The other day, I had a quick call with a prominent feature BubblegumClub, South African singer, songwriter, and dancer best known as Moonchild Sanelly. Born Sanelisiwe Twisha, you’ll easily recognise her for her bold, blue hair and “Future Ghetto Funk” sound. Having already released albums like Rabulapha! and Phases, she first came to prominence in…

Langa Mavuso Helps Pay Homage in #IAmWinnieMandela @MarketTheatre

Winnie Madikizela Mandela is one of South Africa’s most prominent historical figures. Langa Mavuso is one of its brightest young musical stars. Market Theatre, nestled in Newtown, Johannesburg, is known for producing some of the country’s most spectacular shows. Any time these three forces collide, something is bound to shift in the world of South…

Bongeziwe Mabandla: A Diamond in the Rough 

South African musician Bongeziwe Mabandla has carved a remarkable path in the world of music and artistry. With a growing list of accolades, an expanding global audience, and a unique blend of Xhosa lyrics, folk melodies, and experimental sounds, Mabandla’s journey is a testament to the power of music to transcend language and culture. The…

Xzavier Stone journeys into Joburg and Amapiano 

Known for his bold yet spirited work—Zürich-based artist, producer, DJ and vocalist—Xzavier Stone, can be recognised by his subtle and deft spins on rap and R&B music. Stone has a penchant for playfulness and experimentation. “Threading severe electronic music and sound design with harmony and an off-kilter sensuality, Stone offers up a mystery and tease…

Five African musicians to look out for in 2023

2022 was a great year for music. There was a consistent flow of good music across multiple genres and 2023 promises the same. The New Year offers a clean slate which gives artists more freedom, more inspiration, and to experience more growth. It also gives an opportunity for artists that have been in hibernation for…

Manana carries the torch for R&B with new EP

One of South Africa’s most beloved R&B acts is back with a new offering. But could the moments in between is an eight-track exploration into love by the artist, Manana. The project stays true to Manana’s signature tone while introducing different elements. He started working on it in September 2020 and completed it in May…