logo
Discover the hottest new music gems for your weekend playlist

Discover the hottest new music gems for your weekend playlist

IOL News20-06-2025
'Partii' is an invitation to let loose, encouraging listeners to escape the ordinary and surrender to the beat.
Image: Supplied
With the weekend here, music enthusiasts find themselves on the lookout for fresh tracks to enliven their playlists and energise the vibe.
This week, an exciting array of emerging artists and seasoned musicians alike have released tunes that are bound to inspire dance moves and introspection alike.
Here's a curated selection of the hottest new music gems you should consider adding to your weekend rotation.
'Partii' is an invitation to let loose, encouraging listeners to escape the ordinary and surrender to the beat.
Image: Supplied
'Partii' by Kamo Mphela
Kamo Mphela is back with a high-octane anthem titled 'Partii'.
This electrifying track, boasting contributions from Aymos, Jay Music, Que DJ, and SpacePose, is a celebration of youth and rhythm.
'Partii' is an invitation to let loose, encouraging listeners to escape the ordinary and surrender to the beat.
Mphela aims for the song to instill a sense of freedom, making it perfect for the dancefloor and TikTok challenges alike.
Initially penned at just 15-years-old, "Dancin Wit U" encapsulates the dreamy essence of a perfect first date.
Image: Supplied
'Dancin Wit U' by Jaydᴎ Elle
Rising pop star Jaydᴎ Elle delivers a disco-pop delight with her new single 'Dancin Wit U'.
Initially penned at just 15-years-old, the song encapsulates the dreamy essence of a perfect first date.
It layers nostalgic grooves with a modern flair, reminding listeners of the joyful anticipation of new connections.
'It's got soul, it's got sparkle, and it makes you want to move,' Elle shared, highlighting its feel-good nature.
"Get Up" encourages listeners to embrace courage and self-confidence.
Image: Supplied
'Get Up' by Charley Dixon featuring Yedda
Afro-tech DJ Charley Dixon's latest release, 'Get Up', features the soulful voice of Yedda.
This pulsating anthem encourages listeners to embrace courage and self-confidence.
Dixon described the song as a personal message about stepping into one's power, and it's a call for everyone to rise and pursue their dreams fearlessly.
'Bengicela' serves as both a dancefloor hit and a heartfelt prayer for hope and guidance.
Image: Supplied
'Bengicela' by MaWhoo, GL_Ceejay, Thukuthela, and Jazzworx
Following her hit 'Uzizwa Kanjan', MaWhoo returns on a spiritual note with 'Bengicela'.
This collaboration serves as both a dancefloor hit and a heartfelt prayer for hope and guidance.
MaWhoo's powerful vocals resonate through Jazzworx's emotive production, creating a track that offers solace amid life's uncertainties.
In a touching tribute to resilience, Major Bless honours Youth Month with his debut single 'Can't Go Back'.
Image: Supplied
'Can't Go Back' by Major Bless
In a touching tribute to resilience, Major Bless honours Youth Month with his debut single 'Can't Go Back'.
Drawing from personal and societal struggles, the Afro-soul track is a rallying cry for the youth to rise above their past and embrace a hopeful future.
'We move forward, we grow, and we become what we were born to be,' Bless asserted.
"Che Che" exudes confidence, self-expression and the joy of living your best life.
Image: Supplied
'Che Che' by Young Jonn featuring Asake
Young Jonn brings the groove with 'Che Che', an infectious Afro-pop anthem featuring the dynamic Asake.
This vibrant track exudes confidence, self-expression and the joy of living your best life.
Anticipated as a part of Jonn's upcoming 'Blue Disco' project, it's primed to be a staple of summer playlists.
"Unguye uThixo" reflects a young generation's embrace of faith through music.
Image: Supplied
'Unguye uThixo' by Zikhona Maxine Zonke
Emerging gospel artist Zikhona Maxine Zonke offers a heartfelt anthem with 'Unguye uThixo' (You're God).
Rooted in gratitude and purpose, her song reflects a young generation's embrace of faith through music.
'It's about how He rescued me from hopelessness,' Zonke shared, echoing a theme of love and direction.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'
Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'

The Star

time7 hours ago

  • The Star

Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'

Family First makes a powerful return to the Amapiano scene with the release of 'Intombi Yam,' a soulful single crafted alongside Zeenhle and Sykes that's already capturing hearts and setting the dance floors ablaze. Hailing from the vibrant city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, Amapiano producer and entrepreneur Nzuzo Ndlovu, popularly known as Family First, continues to rise in South Africa's music scene. Reflecting on his journey into the Amapiano genre, Family First describes it as one filled with valuable lessons. 'The road hasn't always been smooth, but every bump has taught me something and helped me grow,' he shared. It's this growth, paired with his passion for slow-paced, soulful sounds, that fuels his creativity as a producer. The artist says his deep love for music is what led him to create soundscapes that resonate emotionally with his audience, a signature style now synonymous with his brand. 'I enjoy creating emotional music, something people can learn from or be positively impacted by. While I've done fast-paced tracks before, my heart lies in slow, soulful sounds. I believe love songs and emotional music have greater longevity and a deeper impact on people's lives,' said Family First. The artist shared that his latest single Intombi Yam is a heartfelt tribute to love and cultural pride. He explained that the track draws inspiration from the traditional practice of uLobola and the meaningful gesture of introducing one's partner to the family. ' Intombi Yam is about appreciating and loving your partner, and embracing the culture of uLobola . It's a celebration of women and the respect they deserve,' he said. He also noted that Intombi Yam marks a fresh musical direction for him. Unlike his earlier work, which leaned more towards fast-paced or mainstream Amapiano, this track blends groovy basslines with melodic and soulful rhythms, a sound he's proud to call his own. 'It's groovy, melodic, and soulful, something I haven't done before or heard from others. I always aim to create a unique identity in my sound,' he added. The single has already garnered positive reactions from fans and fellow artists alike. With radio airplay and growing interest in collaborations, Family First says the momentum around Intombi Yam signals an exciting chapter in his musical journey. The producer also reflected on how collaborations with artists like Mawhoo, Zeh McGeba, and Mthokozisi Ndaba have influenced his artistic evolution. He credited each artist for bringing unique qualities that pushed him to grow and refine his craft. 'Working with Mawhoo opened me up emotionally; her powerful, soulful vocals made me realise how important it is to connect deeply with the listener,' he said. 'Zeh McGeba brought a raw, streetwise edge that sharpened my rhythm and lyrical instincts, reminding me to stay rooted in the culture. 'Mthokozisi Ndaba challenged me to focus on storytelling; he helped me see music not just as sound, but as a meaningful narrative.' He added that these collaborations have helped him become more intentional and versatile in his work. "I'm truly grateful for what each of them brought to the table. They've all poured something real into the music, and that's helped shape who I am as an artist today." Family First recalled a standout moment in the studio when he and his team experimented by combining Maskandi and Amapiano sounds. The creative session led to the playful invention of a new genre they called 'Maskandiano.' The track became one of his most unique works, marking a bold step outside his usual style and highlighting his passion for musical innovation. The Amapiano producer is gearing up to release a new EP later this year, expected around September or October. The project features a mix of soulful and groovy Amapiano tracks, with standout songs like Ndiyoyika , featuring Miss Twiggy, and Inombolo , a collaboration with Zino 33, Zema Geber, and Senzo. He shared that his music is deeply rooted in themes of love, family, friendship, and respect. Each track is crafted to take listeners on a journey that celebrates emotional connections and meaningful values, a reflection of the kind of impact he hopes to leave through his artistry. The Star [email protected]

Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'
Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'

IOL News

time7 hours ago

  • IOL News

Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'

Family First's new single "Intombi Yam" revitalises the Amapiano genre, showcasing emotional depth and cultural pride, while marking a new creative path for the artist. Family First makes a powerful return to the Amapiano scene with the release of 'Intombi Yam,' a soulful single crafted alongside Zeenhle and Sykes that's already capturing hearts and setting the dance floors ablaze. Hailing from the vibrant city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, Amapiano producer and entrepreneur Nzuzo Ndlovu, popularly known as Family First, continues to rise in South Africa's music scene. Reflecting on his journey into the Amapiano genre, Family First describes it as one filled with valuable lessons. 'The road hasn't always been smooth, but every bump has taught me something and helped me grow,' he shared. It's this growth, paired with his passion for slow-paced, soulful sounds, that fuels his creativity as a producer. The artist says his deep love for music is what led him to create soundscapes that resonate emotionally with his audience, a signature style now synonymous with his brand. 'I enjoy creating emotional music, something people can learn from or be positively impacted by. While I've done fast-paced tracks before, my heart lies in slow, soulful sounds. I believe love songs and emotional music have greater longevity and a deeper impact on people's lives,' said Family First. The artist shared that his latest single Intombi Yam is a heartfelt tribute to love and cultural pride. He explained that the track draws inspiration from the traditional practice of uLobola and the meaningful gesture of introducing one's partner to the family. 'Intombi Yam is about appreciating and loving your partner, and embracing the culture of uLobola. It's a celebration of women and the respect they deserve,' he said. He also noted that Intombi Yam marks a fresh musical direction for him. Unlike his earlier work, which leaned more towards fast-paced or mainstream Amapiano, this track blends groovy basslines with melodic and soulful rhythms, a sound he's proud to call his own. 'It's groovy, melodic, and soulful, something I haven't done before or heard from others. I always aim to create a unique identity in my sound,' he added. The single has already garnered positive reactions from fans and fellow artists alike. With radio airplay and growing interest in collaborations, Family First says the momentum around Intombi Yam signals an exciting chapter in his musical journey. The producer also reflected on how collaborations with artists like Mawhoo, Zeh McGeba, and Mthokozisi Ndaba have influenced his artistic evolution. He credited each artist for bringing unique qualities that pushed him to grow and refine his craft. 'Working with Mawhoo opened me up emotionally; her powerful, soulful vocals made me realise how important it is to connect deeply with the listener,' he said. 'Zeh McGeba brought a raw, streetwise edge that sharpened my rhythm and lyrical instincts, reminding me to stay rooted in the culture. 'Mthokozisi Ndaba challenged me to focus on storytelling; he helped me see music not just as sound, but as a meaningful narrative.' He added that these collaborations have helped him become more intentional and versatile in his work. "I'm truly grateful for what each of them brought to the table. They've all poured something real into the music, and that's helped shape who I am as an artist today." Family First recalled a standout moment in the studio when he and his team experimented by combining Maskandi and Amapiano sounds. The creative session led to the playful invention of a new genre they called 'Maskandiano.' The track became one of his most unique works, marking a bold step outside his usual style and highlighting his passion for musical innovation. The Amapiano producer is gearing up to release a new EP later this year, expected around September or October. The project features a mix of soulful and groovy Amapiano tracks, with standout songs like Ndiyoyika, featuring Miss Twiggy, and Inombolo, a collaboration with Zino 33, Zema Geber, and Senzo. He shared that his music is deeply rooted in themes of love, family, friendship, and respect. Each track is crafted to take listeners on a journey that celebrates emotional connections and meaningful values, a reflection of the kind of impact he hopes to leave through his artistry. The Star

Mawhoo on thriving in Amapiano's male-dominated scene
Mawhoo on thriving in Amapiano's male-dominated scene

The Citizen

time09-07-2025

  • The Citizen

Mawhoo on thriving in Amapiano's male-dominated scene

Mawhoo was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025. South African vocalist Mawhoo is making waves in the Amapiano genre with her unique sound and rising success in a male-dominated industry. Mawhoo, whose real name is Thandeka Ngema, was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025, a recognition of her growing influence and artistic impact. The EQUAL Africa programme is part of Spotify's global initiative to spotlight and support women creators by equipping them with the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the music industry. Mawhoo's journey in music began in 2018 with the release of her debut single Umshado, which she credits as the beginning of her professional breakthrough. 'The positive feedback from people and the reception to the track made me realise that I can do this thing. But I've always been passionate about music from a young age,' she said. Her path to success, however, has not been without its challenges. As a woman in the industry, Mawhoo said she faced not only creative limitations but also pressure to conform. 'There was a time when people used to make me do music and a sound that didn't resonate with me; I couldn't be creative fully and be expressive, so people used to assume I couldn't sing or that I wasn't talented. 'I was often bullied, and that made me stressed, but instead of leaving music, I carried on and didn't give up. I used that to push myself.' Now regarded as one of the leading voices in Amapiano, she believes her success comes from staying true to herself. 'I've empowered myself, and I make decisions that feel right to me. I don't do things just to please others. I don't do anything that's going to make me feel uncomfortable. If a space doesn't serve me, I walk away.' NOW READ: 'It's not just music, it's a story': Showmax celebrates Kabza De Small's Amapiano brilliance Mawhoo on breaking barriers and setting boundaries Speaking on the broader challenges women face in the music space, Mawhoo said the industry often blurs professional and personal boundaries. 'As a woman, even beyond the music industry, there are challenges that we face. We are subjected to being wanted and approached by men promising us love or looking for intimacy, even in professional settings. 'As women, learn to stand your ground and say no. Teach people to respect you and your decisions. Don't do things because you want to please others and want to be favoured — don't sell your soul.' NOW READ: 'We're all puppets': Q&A with Chester Missing

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store