South African music industry has always been a small space that has left much for artists to have a hand in, more especially artists from Limpopo province. However, 2017 has been a different year, with artists from Limpopo coming in strongly in the industry to claim their spot. Below is a list of artist who took 2017 by storm:
1. Dr Tumi
Born and bred in Seshego, just outside Polokwane city, Dr Tumi is arguably the most successful artist to come out of Limpopo this year. From filling up the Dome to selling thousands of copies, he has become a sensation not only to Gospel Music lovers, but also music listeners in general across the country. His new album Speak A Word: The Gathering of Worshippers, is already flying off the shelves. He swept many awards at the Gospel Music Awards and enjoyed a handful of nominations at the SAMAs with his debut album. 2018 will not be any different. Dr Tumi is not here to play!
2. King Monada
You can’t talk about musicians from Limpopo and not mention King Monada. His music is the most played in the province. Monada is from Tzaneen and has managed to capture the hearts of dance music lovers through his hit song Ska Bhora Moreki. Since then he’s been releasing hit songs almost every week including, O Wa Ka DJ and Oa Nnyaka, just to name a few. It’s hard to tell between him and Dr Tumi who the brightest star is at the moment. One thing for is that Monada is here to stay.
3. Candy Tsa Mandebele
Candy was born and raised at Ga-Sedibeng in Bolobedu. She started singing in the 1980s but only found her breakthrough with a song she made with Oskido about 7 years ago. Ever since she never stopped making music. She’s authentic in her sound and doesn’t compromise on her identity. 2017 has been a great year for her with bookings all over Limpopo and Gauteng province. Her brand and music have found a place in the industry and the future looks bright for her.
4. Sho Madjozi
Also known as Maya The Poet, Sho Madjozi has hit many people by surprise. She featured the likes of Okmaloomkoolkat, DJ Maphorisa and Ms Cosmo. She has a distinct sound and is versatile in that she can sing on a house beat and rap on a hip hop beat. She’s known for her original Tsonga poetry and fresh flow. You mention her name everybody agrees on her talents. 2018 is definitely going to be exciting for her career. This year was a warm up but she has already accomplished a lot and made an impact.
5. Papzito
Popularly known as The King Of Pedi Rap, Papzito was born in Morotse Ga-Mphahlele and grew up in Lebowakgomo. He’s been in the industry since 2010 but it was only in 2017 that his music gained traction. His single, bashemane, off RainInLimpopoII mixtape managed to be on rotation at ThobelaFM for over 12 months and scooped an award in the category of Best Vernacular Hip Hop Song at the SATMA12 awards. He’s had a great run with his music covered by Channel O and TV soapie Rhythm City. South Africa should brace itself with some more pedi raps in 2018.
