The music scene in South Africa is as diverse and vibrant as the country itself, producing artists who have not only dominated local charts but also achieved international acclaim. From the iconic sounds of Miriam Makeba to the contemporary beats of Tyla, South African musicians have consistently pushed boundaries and captivated audiences worldwide. This article explores some of the most popular and influential South African artists, highlighting their contributions to the global music landscape.
Map of South Africa
The Icons: Pioneers of South African Sound
Miriam Makeba
Born in Johannesburg in 1932, Makeba rose from township choirs to international stardom, weaving Xhosa and English lyrics over marabi and jazz rhythms. The first African Grammy winner, her “Pata Pata” launched world music into mainstream consciousness.
“The Click Song”, originally known as “Qongqothwane”, is a traditional isiXhosa folk tune. It is usually sung at weddings to bring the bride and groom good fortune. The song title means “knock knock beetle” referring to various species of darkling beetles that make a knocking sound by tapping their abdomens on the ground.
The beetles are considered, in isiXhosa culture, to bring rain and good luck. Although well known in South Africa the song attained international acclaim after Miriam Makeba recorded and included it on her eponymously titled debut RCA Records studio album in 1960, whilst in exile.
Read also: Faith and Music in Nigeria
Because US audiences were unable to pronounce “Qongqothwane” the title was changed to “The Click Song”. The Makeba, Khoza, Majola, Mdedle and Mogosti arrangement along with Bob Bollard’s production and the backing of Harry Belafonte’s band made the song an international hit.
Miriam Makeba - The Click Song
Hugh Masekela
Born in 1939, he began playing at age 14.
Dollar Brand (Abdullah Ibrahim)
Born in 1934, discovered by Duke Ellington in 1965.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Founded in 1960 by Joseph Shabalala. World fame came via Paul Simon’s Graceland (1986).
Read also: The score from Out of Africa
Lucky Dube
Born in 1964, he switched from mbaqanga to reggae in the ’80s.
Yvonne Chaka Chaka
By the time Yvonne released “Umqombothi” (1988) she was a certified star. It was featured on her third studio album, “Thank You Mr DJ” (1987) and written by Sello “Chicco” Twala and Attie Van Wyk.
Van Wyk went on to become one of South Africa’s greatest music entrepreneurs, starting a company called “Big Concert”, later bought by “Live Nation”. The song was executive produced by Chaka Chaka’s mentor Phil Hollis and is about a traditional South African beer.
“Umqombothi” talks about how the making of the beer is a unifying social activity. The song has a Mbaqanga groove and secured Yvonne’s reputation as a star in the genre. This single was a crossover hit, with people from all sides of the spectrum pumping it on their boom boxes. This festive song was later used in a movie about the Rwandan genocide, “Hotel Rwanda” (2004).
Yvonne Chaka Chaka - Umqombothi
Read also: Genres in African American Music
Brenda Fassie
The Queen of African Pop is a national hero and released many outstanding hits. I have had a love affair with many of her songs, but this is one of my recent obsessions. The mid-tempo song has a majestic feel, with an amazing chord progression and bassline.
It feels like the type of song one would use to make a grand entrance in a spy movie at the Casino Royale in Montenegro. Like “Umqombothi” the song was written by “Chicco” Twala, who wrote many of Brenda’s hits. The song was the centre piece of Brenda’s 1989 album “Too Late For Mama”, her 4th solo studio album and 8th overall if one considers her output with The Big Dudes.
She was only 25 years old at the time of the release. The song highlights the plight of the poor in South Africa and talks about a women who is struck down by lightning, whilst attempting to collect water for her family.
Brenda Fassie - Too Late For Mama
PJ Powers
Born in 1964 in Cape Town. Discovered at 19 in Soweto on TV. Dubbed “Princess of Africa” after a pan-African tour in 1990.
Johnny Clegg
Formed Juluka in the ’70s with Sipho Mchunu.
Contemporary Stars: Shaping the Future of South African Music
In recent years, a new wave of South African artists has emerged, blending local influences with global trends to create unique and captivating sounds. These artists are not only popular in South Africa but are also gaining recognition on the international stage.
AMAPIANO MIX 2025 03 APRIL | BEST AMAPIANO MIX 2025 | NEW AMAPIANO SONGS 2025 | DJ CLASSCOM
Tyla
Tyla is a rising star in the South African music scene. Her soothing voice and captivating lyrics have garnered attention, and she continues to make a significant impact with her music.
AKA(Kiernan Forbes)
Born Kiernan Forbes in 1988. Breakthrough with “Victory Lap” (2011).
Other notable South African artists
South Africa boasts a diverse musical landscape, with numerous artists making significant contributions across various genres. Here's a list of some of the most popular South African musicians, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent in the country:
| Artist | Genre | Viberate Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Tyla | Pop | 5.6M |
| William Last KRM | Hip Hop | 3.6M |
| DJ Maphorisa | Electronic | 1.7M |
| Seether | Rock | 1.4M |
| MaWhoo | African | 1.3M |
| Nasty C | Hip Hop | 1.2M |
| Zee Nxumalo | African | 1.2M |
| Kabza De Small | Electronic | 1.2M |
| Black Coffee | Electronic | 865.9K |
| Makhadzi | Electronic | 844.4K |
