Lesiba, Author at HYPE Magazine

Africa shows a united front toward music with more collaborations

Lesiba — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 06:22:37 +0000

In recent years, Africa’s music scene has exploded onto the global stage, redefining what it means to be an artist from this continent. From Grammy nominations to chart-topping singles, African artists show no signs of slowing down. One key factor behind this success, as revealed by the 2024 Global Impact List, is collaboration.

From East to West, North to South African, artists have embraced the power of collaboration, resulting in some of the most celebrated cross-genre and cross-border hits. This trend sends a clear message: African artists understand that collaboration breeds success, creativity and long-lasting impact.

Growth is on the horizon

One clear example of this collaborative success is the partnership between South African and Nigerian powerhouses Tyla and Tems, whose hit ‘No.1‘ amassed nearly 36 million, this surge in streaming numbers reflects a growing global demand for African music, with collaborations proving to be a key factor in their success. The duo was previously nominated for Spotify’s RADAR Africa artist initiative – a programme dedicated to driving the discovery of emerging artists worldwide.

Following their lead is “One Call” by Nigerian DJ and record producer SPINALL featuring Tyla and Nigerian singer and songwriter, Omah Lay, with over 22 million streams. The growing global appetite for African music is evident in the recent surge in streaming numbers, with collaborations playing a crucial role in driving this success.

Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz occupied the fourth spot, putting East Africa on the map with “Komasava”, a banger that features South African artist Chley and Amapiano sensation Khalil Harrison.

Reaching global standards

Africa’s unique sound is capturing global attention, offering a fresh and exciting experience for music lovers worldwide. Ghanaian artists are reaching new heights through global collaborations. “The Night” by Amaarae, Childish Gambino, and Jorja Smith leads as the most exported Ghanaian song, while King Promise’s “Continental” with Nigeria’s Shallipopi showed up proudly on the Global Impact list, further cementing the power of cross-border partnerships in elevating Ghanaian music worldwide.

Additionally, in Kenya, “DIGII III Trailer” by Mr.Tee, Tenorboy and prod.chacha takes the number 1 spot as the most streamed Kenyan track globally. “Africa’s artists have proven that success lies in collaboration, not competition. By working together, they are not only reshaping the sound of global music but also showcasing the continent’s rich diversity and talent to a worldwide audience. The era of Africa as a global music powerhouse is here and it’s clear that this movement is driven by the strength of unity,” says Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Online Gaming in 2025

Lesiba — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:53:22 +0000

The days of crowding in a basement with all your friends for a Halo 2 LAN party seem to be a distant memory — we progress further into the online era of gaming, and it’s becoming easier and easier to play as the industry keeps growing. Sold-out video game conventions and esports events further confirm the industry’s popularity.

It can be hard to know where to start for those wanting to get involved in the gaming world. Thanks to huge advancements such as cloud gaming and virtual reality, it’s far more diverse than it once was. In this guide, we’ll simplify the world of online gaming and provide beginners with all the information they need to get started and find their feet in this diverse and exciting community.

Understanding Online Gaming Platforms

PC gaming is extremely popular for those wanting a high-performance experience while also allowing players to customize their set-ups and access a wide range of games, including many unavailable to console players. However, this typically comes at a high cost and often requires players to have at least a working level of technical know-how.

Console gaming is widely accepted as much more accessible, and more players can play the most popular games. The cost, however, is that players typically pay more while having less control over the specifications of their consoles, unlike with gaming PCs. The best consoles currently on the market are the Xbox Series X and the PlayStation 5 Pro, which was released towards the end of 2024.

Mobile gaming is interesting since it’s highly accessible and applicable to many smartphones, which means there’s a lower threshold for participation. Many of these games are free to download on either the Google Play Store or Apple Arcade but often come with costly in-app purchases and limited controls — which can be challenging for console gamers trying to adjust their playing style.

Cloud gaming is a fairly new development and has the potential to change how we approach gaming completely. It allows players to stream games instead of needing to buy specialist software and play directly from their television — something Samsung has been pushing heavily when marketing their 2024 range of televisions.

The main downside? The need for a strong and stable internet connection can result in latency issues for those unable to meet the streaming service requirements.

Choosing the Right Game Genre for Beginners

Beginner players should see which of these genres seems like the best fit for them:

● Action and Shooters: These games are often fast-paced and require quick reflexes if players want to succeed, making them quite challenging for those unfamiliar with the genre. Some popular titles include Call of Duty, Apex Legends, and Fortnite.

● Role-Playing Games (RPGs): Role-playing games are certainly worth considering for those who prefer games with strong stories and immersive plotlines. These games are typically built for open-world exploration, so check out Red Dead Redemption, Fallout, and The Elder Scrolls.

● Strategy and Simulation: These can be a much calmer experience for players who aren’t into the intensity of other genres. Such games range from city builders such as Cities: Skylines, which revolve around the player building and managing a metropolis, to realistic simulation games such as Euro Truck Simulator, which has players trucking all over Europe to build their empire.

● Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBAs): These turn-based strategy games are immensely popular among PC gamers and have diverse and inclusive communities, making them perfect for those who enjoy playing as unique characters with their very own skills and powers. League of Legends and Dota 2 are the two most well-known titles in the MOBA genre.

Online Casino and Slot Games: Virtual casino games have been growing in popularity in recent years, now serving as a capable alternative to real-world gambling spaces. There are many sites to choose from, including Springbok Casino, Yebo Casino, and Punt Casino, plus so many more listed on playcasino.za, making it easy for players to find a casino that suits their playing preferences.

Essential Gaming Advice

Players should ensure they have a stable internet connection if they wish to play online or stream games using a cloud gaming service — even if they don’t plan on playing any fast-paced first-person shooters.

Another important consideration is choosing the right hardware. With many different consoles available to pick from, players will need to make the right choice to suit their needs, and then buy the necessary accessories to play online, such as gaming headsets and controllers.

For those wanting to play online, a gaming headset is absolutely essential. With in-game chats and platforms such as Discord being key in many online communities, players should familiarize themselves with the proper etiquette and how to deal with potential abuse or impolite behavior.

Tips to Improve Gaming Skills

Have you ever been frustrated with your less-than-stellar performance in an online game? It’s a common feeling all gamers will understand. If you want to improve your game and start winning more matches here’s some advice.

If in doubt, check out the experts who play for a living on either Twitch or YouTube. There are many content creators to choose from depending on which games you enjoy, so take your time, read the reviews, and watch how they play.

It’s always a good idea to practice as often as is reasonably possible, making use of the practice modes and offline gameplay options to improve any skills that might be lacking before playing online.

It may be tempting to game for long stretches of time, but this can negatively impact the way you play as you may feel burnt out. Managing the time spent gaming is key to a healthy life and an enjoyable gaming experience.

Final Thoughts

It can seem daunting for newcomers, but luckily there are several online communities you can get involved with if you are confused or need help with any given game. It’s also important to understand what you want from a game as a gamer. However, it’s always a good thing to push the boat out and try new things. Who knows? You may find your new favorite game!

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RGRSNW is gearing up for a new single

Lesiba — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 07:52:15 +0000

RGRSNW opens the year with a R&B ballad. Exploring the themes of lost love, and heartbreaking conversations. The track produced by Medicine Man provides a dreamy and eclectic feel. The track is an homage to RGRSNW’s more contemporary R&B roots.

His latest single ‘INTERSTELLAR’ has been featured on the Apple New Mzansi Playlist, with previous releases featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday, R&Beats and Fresh Finds Africa playlists. Apple Music’s Alt R&B, New in R&B, New Music Daily and R&B hot tracks

With the WAIT VISUALIZER has already hitting 25K views on Youtube WAIT was added to the Spotify’s Fresh Finds Africa playlist.

LOCATION was also added to Spotify’s New Music Friday and R&B Beat Playlists. As well as the Apple Music’s New Music Daily Playlist and The New Mzansi Playlist. The music video has garnered 22K views and counting in a little over a month. He seeks to continue this momentum with his next release.

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MONEY BADOO SET TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM M$RYLUVSCMPNY WITH SUPPORT OF BRAND NEW LIVE SET, IN COLLABORATION WITH BAD WEATHER, PARADISE SOUND SYSTEM & CONCERTS SA

Lesiba — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 05:45:52 +0000

South African genre-bending artist Money Badoo, signed under Paradise Sound System, the label renowned for fostering cross-continental collaborations, is set to launch an electrifying brand-new live set in conjunction with the release of her latest album. The live set, created in collaboration with the cutting-edge creative agency Bad Weather, promises an immersive, boundary-pushing experience that will captivate audiences and showcase Money Badoo’s innovative artistry. This exciting project will debut as a two-part series, supported by Concerts SA, on March 6th in Cape Town and March 7th in Johannesburg.

The new live set represents Money Badoo’s commitment to redefining the music experience in South Africa, blending striking visuals, dynamic performance elements, and her genre-defying sound. With a reputation for being one of the most vibrant voices in South Africa’s contemporary music scene, Money Badoo has continually pushed the envelope with her music, style, and live performances.

This latest endeavor further cements her position as a trailblazer in the African music landscape. Additionally, the South African tour serves as a preliminary to Money Badoo’s first international tour, supported by Africa Rising Music Conference. Set for July 2025, this upcoming international tour will see her performing across Benelux, expanding her reach to global audiences.

M$RYLUVSCMPNY, is more than a project—it’s a journey of self-discovery, transformation, and resilience. Through music, visuals, and fashion, it tells a deeply personal story of navigating heartbreak, battling inner demons, and confronting the complexities of mental health. At its core, the project is about alchemy—turning pain into power, sadness into art, and isolation into connection. Led by Money Badoo, also known as ZAAK, M$RYLUVSCMPNY blends alternative hip-hop, R&B, and experimental sounds to create a world where vulnerability meets strength. It’s an open invitation to embrace the beauty in struggle and the light that comes from within, even in the darkest moments.

Produced by the finest names in South African hip-hop, including multi-award-winning pH Raw X, award-nominated MashBeatz, platinum-certified gTbeats, and the versatile NOTBENJAMIN, M$RYLUV$CMPNY delivers genre-defying beats infused with the vibrant energy of South African culture.

Money Badoo’s recent singles have made significant waves, with her breakout track “Don’t Call Me” debuting on 5FM’s Dance Chart in its first week, gaining airplay on YFM and Jacaranda FM, and amassing over 2 million playlist streams across 29 editorial and third-party playlists. Her exclusive video for “Don’t Call Me”, hailed by Texx and the City as one of the best indie videos of 2024, premiered on TRACE and captivated audiences with its vibrant, nostalgic visuals.

Her rise continues with over 750,000 playlist listeners for her latest releases and a growing international presence. A rework of “Don’t Call Me” features global stars Boban Marjanovic (Serbia), Haftbefehl, Gringo, and Dribbla (Germany), produced by Paradise AI Kitchen. This groundbreaking track combines cutting-edge AI-driven music creation with a global reach of over 4 million fans.

Bad Weather, known for their expertise in crafting avant-garde creative concepts and brand experiences, has played an integral role in curating the aesthetic and technical elements of the live set. Together, they have designed an experience that transcends a traditional live show, incorporating state-of-the-art stage design, lighting, and audiovisual storytelling.

Tour Details:

Cape Town: March 6th, 2025, in collaboration with renowned streetwear brand BROKE, Klubhouse.

Johannesburg: March 7th in collaboration with Rockets Music & 8th in collaboration with SEALAND store at 44 Stanley.

Supported by: Concerts SA

Speaking about the upcoming live set, Money Badoo shared: “This project has been a long time coming, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with my supporters. Partnering with Bad Weather and being supported by Concerts SA has allowed me to create something truly special. This is more than just a live show—it’s a celebration of the journey I’ve been on and a taste of what’s to come.”

Supporters can expect a thrilling blend of old favorites and new material, with each performance offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Money Badoo is signed under Paradise Sound System, a label renowned for fostering cross-continental collaborations and elevating African talent on a global stage. Known for their out-of-the-box thinking and ability to craft memorable experiences, they have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry to bring visionary concepts to life.

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GR8FUL says it’s “MY SEASON” on new single

Lesiba — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 12:11:23 +0000

GR8FUL is an emerging name in the industry that you should take note of. The rising rapper recently released a new single titled “MY SEASON”. The single sees GR8FUL rap atop a bouncy production with an infectious flow. He carries the type of flow that is so easy to catch that you’ll feel like you have heard the song before. From a subject matter point of view, GR8FUL goes on to narrate the life of a budding artist from putting the city on the map to the inevitable attention that accompanies stardom. If you’re looking for a get-up-and-go song, look no further than GR8FUL’s “MY SEASON”. Listen the single below.

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Levi’s® & Beyonce Launch REIIMAGINE Chapter 2: “Pool Hall”

Lesiba — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 11:25:45 +0000

The Levi’s® brand, in collaboration with global icon Beyoncé, debuted Pool Hall, the second chapter of the REIIMAGINE campaign, and a celebration of Levi’s® enduring legacy and Beyoncé’s transformative artistic vision. In the new film and accompanying imagery, Beyoncé effortlessly showcases an iconic denim on denim look and its timeless versatility.

Building on the success of the first chapter – Launderette, which inspired audiences by reimagining a classic 1985 advertisement – Pool Hall reinterprets Levi’s® iconic 1991 ad of the same name. Levi’s® teamed up with GRAMMY Award-winning director Melina Matsoukas for the latest chapter of the REIIMAGINE campaign, evolving this piece of Levi’s® history while showcasing the timeless versatility of its garments.

The campaign was conceived in creative partnership with TBWA\Chiat\Day LA and produced by de la revolućion/PRETTYBIRD.

Olyphant, in a high-stakes game of pool. Celebrating Levi’s® products as modern style staples that continue to evolve, the new chapter embraces bold interpretations and encourages wearers to make them their own. Chapter 2’s supplemental still images highlight striking pieces, including the Ribcage Wide Leg jeans, the Braided Vest, and the Spade Trench, styled with custom embellishments to reflect the spirit of individuality and reinvention central to the campaign.

“There isn’t another wardrobe piece that evokes comfort, modern elegance, classic Americana attire, and nostalgia the way denim does,” said Beyoncé. “And when I think of all those things, I think of Levi’s.” She continued, “For the second chapter in our collaboration we had even more fun in reimagining the denim on denim narrative, through the lens of a woman, who can be sexy, bold and a fierce competitor, all at once. We wanted to celebrate the duality of grace and power.”

“Levi’s® has always built on its rich denim history, reinterpreting it in new cultural moments and proving that reinvention is at its core,” said Kenny Mitchell, global chief marketing officer of the Levi’s® brand at Levi Strauss & Co. “Pool Hall honors our heritage while breaking new ground, giving fans a chance to personalize their Levi’s® and express their unique style.”

Pool Hall launches with a fully integrated global campaign, including television, digital, social media, out-of-home, and brand activations. Additionally, the brand’s social media will feature additional style content from global creators that encourages viewers to make their own style mark. Fans and friends of the brand will also be invited to participate in experiences that will serve as a playground for their own reimaginations.

The campaign continues the Levi’s® tradition of working with the most celebrated creative talents of our time. Matsoukas collaborated with Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Marcell Rév and acclaimed photographer Mason Poole to capture the visual essence of Pool Hall, building on the legacy of iconic Levi’s® campaigns and photography.

For more information on the REIIMAGINE campaign, visit levi.com/liveinlevis and follow @levis on Instagram and TikTok.

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LIINDOR is “Addicted” on new single

Lesiba — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:26:45 +0000

As the saying goes, there is nothing new under the sun. Narratives of love and heartbreak have been a staple for R&B, but how it has been interpreted may be new and LIINDOR’s execution of a love song is one I find refreshing. The song feels like home with the shakers in place of digital percussion instruments. If you are a fan of LIINDOR, this sort of execution wouldn’t be new to you. LIINDOR’s songwriting ability is impeccable and because he makes it seem so easy, it might be under appreciated. His writing shines through from a flow and subject matter perspective. Perfect for both listeners who casually listen to music and those that listen intensely for meaning and messaging in the music. Listen to “Addicted” below.

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Ayanda Jiya’s “Let You Go’ is a story of closure

Lesiba — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:27:56 +0000

Ayanda Jiya is easily among the most talented artists in the country and she is deservedly held in high regard. So with each release, we eagerly head to our chosen DSP’s to tap in. She recently released a new single titled “Let You Go” and what a wonderfully encompassing listen it is. The song sees Ayanda Jiya talk us through her thinking about a lover. As the title suggests, the song is about letting go of an unrequited lover. Despite Ayanda Jiya’s tremendous vocal ability, she opted for a more soft spoken approach to the song. Her delivery fits perfectly with the nature of the downtempo production and honestly, her vocals feel like the sort of hug you need from a loved one following a breakup. Listen to “Let You Go” below.

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The Inaugural Mahindra Fusion Fest Enchants Audience With Unique Magical Experience

Lesiba — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:06:48 +0000

Mahindra South Africa marked two decades of success in the country by hosting the Mahindra Fusion Fest, a landmark event that blended business, culture, and community engagement, setting the stage for a dynamic third decade.

The celebration was further elevated by the presence of the Honourable Deputy President of South Africa,

Mr Paul Mashatile, who graced the occasion as the guest of honour, reinforcing the significance of cultural unity, innovation, and Mahindra’s growing role in South Africa’s automotive landscape commented, “This evening’s musical collaborations represent a bold fusion of fashion and cutting-edge art. South Africa’s music scene is a melting pot of genres and influences, encompassing traditional African rhythms, jazz, hip-hop, pop, and current edgy sounds such as Gqom and Amapiano. Our country has a distinct and interesting past, shaped by centuries of interactions between different peoples, traditions, and customs. The fusion of indigenous African traditions with others has created a rich mosaic of identities in our rainbow nation. Cultural fusion, therefore, has the capability to overcome division and increase understanding among individuals from various backgrounds. That is why we always say, diverse people unite!”

Since entering South Africa in 2004, Mahindra has grown into one of the fastest-expanding automotive brands in the country, with over 100 000 customers, 95 dealerships nationwide, and a strong presence in Sub-Saharan Africa. The company has invested heavily in the region, strengthening local assembly, dealer expansion, and training programmes to enhance customer experience and ensure continued growth.

Over the years, Mahindra has introduced many iconic models such as the Scorpio, XUV 700, and Scorpio-N, reinforcing its reputation for authentic, capable, and reliable SUVs. The Scorpio-N, a winner of multiple South African Car of the Year awards, demonstrated Mahindra’s ability to deliver world-class vehicles tailored to the South African market.

In 2018, Mahindra established a local assembly plant at Dube TradePort in Durban, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the country. In 2024, Mahindra celebrated the rollout of its 20 000th locally assembled vehicle and announced plans for a new, larger assembly facility, further cementing South Africa as a strategic hub for the brand.

Now, with the XUV 3XO, Mahindra is taking its next major step—expanding into the compact SUV segment with a vehicle that blends accessibility, advanced technology, and bold design. More than just a model launch, the XUV 3XO represents Mahindra’s next chapter in South Africa, where it aims to bring cutting-edge SUVs to a wider audience.

“Our journey in South Africa has been about more than just vehicles—it’s about building a legacy of trust, innovation, and community impact. Over the past 20 years, we have not only grown our footprint but also strengthened our commitment to this market through local assembly, dealer expansion, and continued investment in the South African economy. As we enter our third decade, our focus remains on offering cutting-edge SUVs that reflect the aspirations of South Africans, while also deepening our role as a corporate citizen through initiatives that go beyond business,” said Veejay Nakra, President – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Chairman of the Board, Mahindra South Africa.

To celebrate this journey, Mahindra hosted the Mahindra Fusion Fest, a first-of-its-kind cultural festival, bringing together over 7 000 attendees in a vibrant showcase of music, fashion, and art. The Mahindra Fusion Fest was more than a festival—it was a reflection of Mahindra’s journey in South Africa and its vision for the future. Rooted in the ‘Discover the X’ philosophy, the event symbolised exploration, self-expression, and breaking boundaries—values that define both Mahindra’s SUV range and its commitment to South Africa.

From genre-defying musical performances with unique fusion acts to fashion inspired by automotive design and live artistic expressions, the festival embodied Mahindra’s belief in Fusion—the power of bringing together different elements to create something extraordinary.

One of the standout moments of the festival was the unveiling of the ‘Discover the X Line by Thula Sindi’, a fashion collection inspired by the XUV 3XO. The collection reflected boldness, individuality, and the youthful energy of South Africa. The event also showcased three exclusive Thula Sindi Edition XUV 3XO SUVs, seamlessly blending automotive design and contemporary fashion.

The Mahindra Music Talent Search and Fashion Talent Initiative gave young South African artists and designers a platform to showcase their creativity. The winners of the Together We Rise initiative performed on stage, proving that local talent is at the heart of Mahindra’s vision for the future.
The festival also featured a one-of-a-kind art experience, including a monumental sculpture created by university students and live graffiti murals designed by young street artists, further reinforcing Mahindra’s commitment to supporting emerging talent and creative expression.
True to the Mahindra Rise philosophy, Fusion Fest was about more than just entertainment—it was about making a difference. Every element of the festival was linked to charitable causes, ensuring that the event’s impact extended beyond the celebration itself.

“Mahindra has always believed in the power of bringing people together—whether through our vehicles, our partnerships, or our impact on communities. As we celebrate 20 years in South Africa, Fusion Fest is not just about marking a milestone; it is a testament to the relationships we have built, the communities we have supported, and the legacy we are creating. But no celebration is truly meaningful without giving back. Through Fusion Fest, we are proud to have raised funds for 10 large charities, ensuring that our impact goes beyond a single night and continues to touch lives. As we enter our third decade, our commitment remains stronger than ever—to drive innovation, to embrace the vibrant spirit of South Africa, and to uplift the communities that have made Mahindra a part of their journey,” said Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa.

With Fusion Fest as the cultural expression of Mahindra’s evolution, and the XUV3XO leading the brand’s expansion into new segments, Mahindra’s third decade in South Africa is set to be even more transformative.

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Riky Rick Posthumous Album To Drop April 4th

Lesiba — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 12:11:39 +0000

Firstly, we never die, we multiply. Those words reverberate through everyone involved in the culture. A statement we make in solidarity for the culture to defend its dignity and history in the face of detractors. Today marks a sad day in the culture as it serves as the anniverssary of the loss of the late great Riky Rick. Despite his no longer being with us, it is an opportuntity for all of us to carry his values in his absence. To the delight of the culture, a Riky Rick’s posthumous album is on the way and we will have it for April 4th.

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KHAN KHALII’s ‘Imprint’ is magical

Lesiba — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:54:11 +0000

Now, sometimes, I’m not so great at my job because I tend to miss out on a few releases that inevitably fall through the cracks. One of those songs is from a wonderfully talented artists that goes by the name KHAN KHALII. Check out the video below to tap in.

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There are a plethora of love songs out there right now as it is the month of love. However, upon listening to ‘Imprint’, I have found that it stands out from the pack. From the onset, you are eagerly welcomed by KHAN KHALII’s imapssioned vocals as she sings, “Found your jacket in my your wardobe/Don’t know if i should burn it or send it right back to you”.

The mark of a great storyteller in music is judged by the writers ability to manipulate the emotions of a listener and in that regard, KHAN KHALII hits the nail on the head. What starts out as a heartbreak song that has you sympathising with KHAN, ultimately turns into a song about reconsiling love lost despite the actions that lead them to that point.

Outside of her writing ability, KHAN KHALII displays an ability to tell a story while maintaining the integrity of the song. What I mean by that is that she didn’t sacrifice the playability of the song for an intricate story. In essence, KHAN gives you the best of what R&B has to offer. Listen to the song below.

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Red Bull Turn It Up: South Africa’s Newest DJ Competition brings the heat!

Lesiba — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:06:59 +0000

For the first time, Red Bull Turn It Up is coming to South Africa, celebrating the incredible energy and artistry of South Africa’s best DJs. This high-energy competition will feature DJ duos battling it out in real time, creating instant mixes to surprise themes on the night. The ultimate judges? The audience—your cheers and engagement will determine the winners! Catch the rhythm in Johannesburg on 22 February, Durban on 26 February and the finale in Cape Town on 15 March 2025.

Host city for the Joburg will bring the heat with DJ duo teams including, Ms Cosmo and DJ Tshegu, PH and Mac Shawty, Kyotic and Mac Breezy and Courtnaé Paul and Rox Paperz Scissors with Teddy Goodfella as the host. Who will win? You decide.

From there, the energy travels to Durban where the warm coastal city will be the stage for an epic showdown. Taking on the challenge, Que DJ and Asvnte, Xola TSM and Cndie Blaq, Stanky and DJ Meech and finish off the teams are Jnr Richi and Nomadik

Finally, the series will culminate in Cape Town, where the Mother City’s iconic vibe will merge with beats guaranteed to get the crowd moving. Taking the stage is Kyeezi and Milwa the DJ, Roscosteazy

and Insertcoinz, Gremlin and Kane and closing off the line is Enrico Celento and Waggy.

Each city’s event will feature local talent, incredible energy, and unforgettable vibes. Attendees can expect not just a musical feast but a cultural experience that embodies the passion, talent, and diversity of South African music.

The power is in your hands—you, the audience, get to vote and decide the winner. Let the beats drop and the battle begin!

Event Details:

Date: Saturday 22 February 2025

Time: From 16:00 – 19:00

Venue: Playground, Braamfontein

Date: Wednesday 26 February 2025

Time: From 20:00 – 23:00

Venue: The Villa, Waterfront

Date: Saturday 15 March 2025

Time: 21:00 – 23:00 (gates open at 20:00)

Venue: Club Paradise

Tickets are free and at the door! Visit www.redbull.com and don’t miss your chance to be part of the event that’s set to turn up the fun!

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Naishe Unveils New Single “I Like” Featuring Grammy-winning Multi-platinum Producer Christer

Lesiba — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 08:52:37 +0000

Rising Afro-pop and R&B sensation Naishe continues her meteoric rise with the release of her latest single, “I Like”, a captivating collaboration with Grammy-winning and multi-platinum producer Christer. This genre-bending track brings together Afro-pop’s warmth and R&B’s soul, creating an irresistible groove that’s destined to get listeners moving.

“I Like” is a masterclass in modern sound, seamlessly blending soft, rhythmic percussion, groovy basslines, and lush synths with Naishe’s silky, expressive vocals. The catchy chorus and vibrant, radio-ready sound strike the perfect balance between intimate storytelling and upbeat danceability, making it ideal for everything from chill evenings to lively dance floors.

The release of “I Like” follows the success of Naishe’s January single, “Almost“, which paired an emotionally charged track with a visually stunning music video. Naishe continues to push creative boundaries, delivering a song that showcases her artistry and elevates her presence in the Afro-pop and R&B space.

I Like is now streaming on all major platforms, offering listeners a rich blend of heartfelt lyrics, world-class production, and undeniable vibes.

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Nanette Returns with Two New Singles, Bad” and “Money Can’t Save Me”

Lesiba — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 07:21:38 +0000

Following the success of her EP, ‘The Waiting Room’, which captivated audiences last year, Nanette is ready to take her artistry to new heights with her two singles – “Bad” and Money Can’t Save Me”. The rising R&B sensation showcases her versatility as an artist blending themes of confidence, allure, and introspection with her signature soulful sound.

“Bad” is a moody R&B track that blends Nanette’s sultry melodies with an intoxicating, hypnotic rhythm. The song paints a picture of a dangerously captivating woman—one who exudes confidence, and a little bit of chaos. Nanette’s evocative delivery intensifies the conflict within the lyrics. The song carries a cinematic quality, making it feel both intimate and larger-than-life. “Bad” is the kind of track that lingers—perfect for late-night drives, dimly lit rooms, or moments of deep reflection about love and the intoxicating power of desire. “The inspiration behind ‘Bad’ was captivating, beautiful women. I am in awe of all women and everything they’re able to accomplish while being such beautiful, sexy, mysterious beings. I think it’s really cool to see them in all their glory,” says Nanette.

In contrast, “Money Can’t Save Me” is a soulful, reggae-infused reflection on womanhood, faith, and the limits of material wealth. Blending warm reggae grooves with introspective lyricism, the song explores the emotional and spiritual burdens that money cannot resolve. Nanette contrasts financial success with the longing for true love, inner peace, and divine guidance. The lyrics express frustration, resilience, and a desire for freedom, underscored by a yearning for the pure, unwavering love that only Jah can provide. With its hypnotic harmonies and heartfelt storytelling, the track serves as a powerful anthem for those seeking deeper fulfilment beyond material success. “‘Money Can’t Save Me’ was inspired by womanhood and the experience of being a woman in the 21st century. I think as women, we all strive so hard to be successful—to have the perfect job, the perfect life—but all of this still isn’t enough to protect us from the hardships and expectations of being a woman,” Nanette explains.

2024 was a breakout year for Nanette with the release of her debut EP, ‘The Waiting Room’, which garnered critical acclaim and solidified her place in the South African R&B scene, earning her a loyal fanbase affectionately known as The Nesties. “I’m so grateful for the love and support from The Nesties, and I can’t wait to share more of my journey with them this year. These two songs are just the beginning,” says Nanette.

Fans can expect more releases, live performances, and exclusive content as Nanette continues to build on her momentum and establish herself as a leading force in R&B.

The post Nanette Returns with Two New Singles, Bad” and “Money Can’t Save Me” appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Venom, Shishiliza & Yumbs Join Forces to Release Their New Love Anthem “Westhandwa”

Lesiba — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 07:04:06 +0000

The dynamic duo Venom & Shishiliza together with Yumbs have released their latest single, weSthandwa, a heartfelt love anthem featuring Blxckie, 031CHOPPA and Shannon. The track is now available across all digital platforms and continues their tradition of dropping love-inspired songs every love season

Following the success of last year’s romantic single, Flight Ya Hoseng, the duo continue their annual tradition of delivering emotionally rich music that resonates with fans. Their journey began with Sondela, a platinum-selling hit released in August 2022, which featured Yumbs, Raspy, Blxckie, Tshego and the late Riky Rick . The song’s success sparked a wave of viral TikTok creations, solidifying Venom & Shishiliza’s signature sound in the industry.

Known for blending Amapiano, Afro-pop, R&B, and hip-hop, the duo explores new sonic territory withweSthandwa. This latest release infuses elements of Afro-pop and hip-hop while maintaining their signature sound that taps into different sounds which make their music transcend genres.

When asked about the inspiration behind their latest offering, Venom & Shishiliza shared: “Love inspired this song. Every year, around Valentine’s Day, we release a track for those in love, those healing from heartbreak, and those searching for love.”

Blxckie brings his hip-hop edge to the track, while 031Choppa and Shannon deliver raw and captivating vocals that add depth to the song’s heartfelt lyrics. weSthandwa is a musical love letter, celebrating deep affection and appreciation for a partner. The fusion of Amapiano, Afro-pop, and hip-hop makes this track both refreshing and engaging.

Venom & Shishiliza remain dedicated to pushing the creative boundaries. “We’re not confined to a single genre. Experimenting with different sounds is what excites us. Collaboration is a big part of our process, and blending styles allows us to craft something truly unique,” they explain.

Their long-standing creative relationship with Yumbs, Blxckie, and 031Choppa continues to yield incredible results, and the addition of Shannon—discovered through producer Herc Cut The Lights—adds a fresh dynamic to their latest release. After a session in the studio with her, they knew she was the perfect fit for weSthandwa.

The post Venom, Shishiliza & Yumbs Join Forces to Release Their New Love Anthem “Westhandwa” appeared first on HYPE Magazine.