Tune in: young musicians to celebrate this Youth Month

IOL News

17-06-2025

Jazzworx and Thukuthela are rapidly making waves in the South African house music scene.
Image: File
As we celebrate Youth Month in South Africa, a period dedicated to recognising and uplifting the voices of young people, it's only fitting to spotlight the trailblazing musicians who are shaping the future of our music scene.
This month offers a perfect stage to highlight a talented group of young artists who are not only making waves locally but are also ready to captivate global audiences with their unique sounds.
Here's a round-up of some of the hottest young musicians you should not miss.
Kamo Mphela
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Kamo Mphela has emerged as a beacon of hope for many female artists, challenging the industry norms and advocating for women's representation in music.
Image: Kamo Mphela Instagram
Breaking through the noise of the music industry is Kamo Mphela, born Kamogelo Matona in Durban and raised in Soweto.
She shot to fame as an Amapiano dancer, making her mark on social media with captivating dance videos that highlighted her infectious energy and charisma.
Since releasing her debut single 'Suka Emabozeni" in 2020, she has seen a meteoric rise in popularity. Her latest track, 'Partii', has gone viral, further cementing her reputation as one of SA's most formidable artists.
Mphela has emerged as a beacon of hope for many female artists, challenging the industry norms and advocating for women's representation in music.
Craig Lucas
Craig Lucas has devoted himself to uplifting underprivileged youth hailing from similar backgrounds, using his platform to inspire change.
Image: Supplied
Craig Lucas is no stranger to the South African entertainment industry.
Gaining fame as the winner of the second season of 'The Voice South Africa' in 2017, Lucas' story is one of resilience born from adversity.
Raised in the challenging environment of the Cape Flats, he has devoted himself to uplifting underprivileged youth hailing from similar backgrounds, using his platform to inspire change.
Lucas's latest project, 'Love You for the Last Time', showcases his musical evolution as it delivers an '80s Euro-pop vibe infused with modern emotional depth.
The fourth single from his highly anticipated EP, this track, a collaboration with Jono Greyling, introduces an expansive soundscape with pounding drums and soaring vocals, creating an anthem for heartbroken souls.
Musa Yende
Musa Yende embodies the spirit of perseverance and talent.
Image: Supplied
Hailing from the vibrant community of Spruitview on the East Rand, Musa Yende embodies the spirit of perseverance and talent.
Yende's musical journey unfolded in church, where her passion for singing was ignited from an early age.
After graduating high school, she pursued formal studies in music, focusing on jazz - a pivotal influence that shaped the fluidity and control of her exceptional voice.
Before stepping into the limelight as a solo artist, Yende dedicated herself to perfecting her craft, providing backing vocals for prominent gospel figures such as Dr Tumi and Benjamin Dube, and even embarking on international projects.
Her persistence paid off with the recent release of her highly anticipated debut EP, 'Sustained by Grace'.
This work features an impressive collaboration with the beloved artist Brenden Praise on the track 'Amandla Amasha'.
Jazzworx and Thukuthela
Jazzworx and Thukuthela are rapidly making waves in the South African house music scene.
Image: File
The musical duo Jazzworx and Thukuthela, comprised of Kamohelo Monese and Kgotso Dube respectively, is rapidly making waves in the South African house music scene.
With chart-topping hits such as 'Isaka (6am)', 'Vuka' and 'Uzizwa Kanjani', they are undeniably the 'it thing' in the industry right now.
These two artists, originating from different parts of the Gauteng province, accidentally crossed paths, and it was only a matter of time before their exceptional talents intertwined to produce a string of infectious hits.
Elandré Schwartz
Elandré Schwartz's ascent in the Afrikaans music sphere is emblematic of his talent, adaptability and a profound connection to his roots.
Image: Anton Geurt Ferreira
Hailing from the small coastal town of Despatch in the Eastern Cape, Elandré Schwartz has become a formidable name in Afrikaans music.
His journey began at the age of 19 when he made the life-changing decision to move to Cape Town to pursue theatre.
This bold step turned out to be the right one for Schwartz, whose budding passion for performance led to a viral online cover of Bruce Springsteen's 'Tougher than The Rest'.
This moment opened the door to his first major record deal in 2016.
In 2017, Schwartz released his debut album, 'Kleindorp-Dromer', a collection that showcased his impressive songwriting abilities.
The album achieved gold status within just three months of its release, an incredible milestone for a newcomer navigating an ever-evolving industry.
Schwartz's ascent in the Afrikaans music sphere is emblematic of his talent, adaptability and a profound connection to his roots.
Neo Dube
Neo Dube's rise to fame has been both inspiring and uplifting.
Image: Neo Dube Instagram
Another rising star making waves is Neo Dube, who recently garnered the title of Best New Artist at the Metro FM Awards.
Born in Umlazi, this remarkable singer-songwriter's rise to fame has been both inspiring and uplifting, as she continues to share her soulful melodies with the world.
Dube's musical journey commenced in the sacred halls of her church choir, where she discovered the transformative power of music within her community. With a distinctive voice and a passion for storytelling, Dube's music transcends the realms of entertainment.
She explores themes of belonging, healing, memory, love and faith in her songs, weaving narratives that echo deeply with audiences.
Currently, she is working on her debut EP which we believe will be amazing.
Lutho Pasiya's pick of songs you should check out. Kamo Mphela, Khalil Harrison, and Tyler ICU - "Dalie": A collaboration that uniquely blends talent and style, the song has become a commercial success, charting number 1 in Malawi, Zimbabwe, and SA. Within four days of release, it surpassed 2 million digital streams and achieved Gold status in SA.
Musa Yende - "uMelusi": Meaning 'The Shepherd', this touching track speaks to God's unwavering love and care, resonating deeply during uncertain times.
Ciza, Jazzworx, and Thukuthela - "Isaka (6am)": This track, accumulating over 5 million streams on YouTube, is rapidly gaining traction and has the potential to become the Song of the Year on several Mzansi radio stations.