5 African Voices to Watch: January 2025 Edition

As the new year begins, the African music scene continues to pulse with vibrant energy, innovation, and unmatched creativity. From soulful vocalists to genre-defying producers, these five artists are setting the stage for what promises to be a groundbreaking year. Representing the diversity of the continent’s sounds, they embody the spirit of African music: rooted in heritage, yet boldly pushing boundaries.

In this edition of African Voices to Watch, we spotlight rising stars who are making waves locally and globally. Whether it’s the heartfelt rhythms of Zambia, the vibrant beats of South Africa, or the cultural fusion of Zimbabwe, these artists are the ones to keep on your radar.

Get ready to discover the next big names shaping Africa’s sonic future!

1 – CHURCH ULUKUTA

Church Ulukuta , a leading Zambian producer, blends traditional guitar rhythms with modern pop, creating a unique and captivating sound. Known for collaborating with top Zambian artists, Ulukuta’s music tells heartfelt stories of love and life, delivered with raw emotion. His latest release, “Still Together,” is a 14-track exploration of the human condition, showcasing his artistic depth and versatility.

2 – PIWA 

Piwa, the Zimbabwean-born artist now based in the US, is carving her own lane in the music world. Blending the raw energy of rap with the soulful melodies of R&B, she crafts a unique sound that’s as captivating as it is personal. Piwa’s music is a raw and honest reflection of her emotions, skillfully woven into narratives that come to life in her evocative music videos.

She’s already made waves with a string of singles and her critically acclaimed EP, “Dead Ends,” showcasing her versatility and artistic depth. While embracing her new home, Piwa seamlessly incorporates elements of her Zimbabwean heritage, infusing her music with Shona rhythms and a distinct African flavor. This fusion of cultures creates a truly unique and authentic voice that sets her apart from the crowd.

3 – SONWABILE 

Sonwabile is a rising star in the South African music scene, captivating audiences with his unique blend of Afrobeat, Amapiano, and Trap. He’s known for crafting infectious tunes that effortlessly blend catchy melodies with hard-hitting beats. His music has garnered significant attention, with tracks like “ABEKHO” achieving widespread popularity and solidifying his position as an artist to watch.

Sonwabile is actively building his discography, releasing a string of singles and collaborating with other talented artists to further expand his reach and introduce his music to new audiences. With his distinctive sound, undeniable talent, and growing fanbase, Sonwabile is poised to make a major impact on the South African music industry and beyond.

4 – TIANNA BRIANS

 

Tianna, a Zambian vocalist, possesses a voice that transcends earthly boundaries. Her music seamlessly blends the rhythmic pulse of R&B with ethereal melodies, creating a sonic experience that’s both smooth and captivating. This rising star’s exceptional talent was recognized last year with the prestigious “Rising Star of the Year” award at the Personality of the Year Awards.

5 – KINDLY NXSH 

KindlyNxsh, also known as Young Soldier, is a rising star in the South African music scene. This Zimbabwean-born producer, songwriter, and performer has quickly gained recognition for his unique blend of sounds and his ability to collaborate with top South African artists like Blxckie, Sjava, and Nadia Nakai just to mention a few. Based in South Africa, KindlyNxsh’s distinctive style and impressive production skills have solidified his place as a key player in the evolving South African music landscape.