In a time when South African music continues to evolve and flourish, renowned singer Donald has taken a moment to spotlight two promising artists, Naledi Aphiwe and Mawelele, who are making significant strides in the local music scene.
Through a heartfelt post shared on his social media, Donald expressed his admiration for the talent and perseverance displayed by these rising stars, who are challenging norms and redefining SA's musical landscape.
“Guys, Naledi & Mawelele are changing our music scene right in front of our eyes and I feel like we haven’t woken up to it yet. Yoh, I’m so happy for the future of SA music,” Donald shared.
Guys, Naledi & Mawelele are changing our music scene right in front of our eyes and I feel like we haven’t woken up to it yet.
— DON TIKI (@DonaldInDenial) February 16, 2025
Yoh I’m so happy for the future of SA music 😭
Aphiwe, born in the lively township of Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal, has become a sensation with her captivating vocals and distinctive sound.
Her love for music blossomed during her time at Khethokuhle Secondary School, where a chance encounter - a video of her singing - turned into a viral moment that propelled her into the spotlight.
Aphiwe’s breakthrough came in 2022 when international R&B icon Chris Brown discovered her talent on TikTok, appreciating her extraordinary voice, which led to her being sampled on his track “Shooter” from the album “11:11”.
Since then, she has performed at numerous gigs, garnered a massive social media following, and continually released music that showcases her unique artistry.
On the other hand, Mawelele is carving his path with infectious beats and lyrics that resonate deeply with the everyday experiences of South Africans.
Hailing from Johannesburg and raised in Vaal, Mawelele discovered his passion for music at the tender age of 11.
His persevering journey saw him composing music in humble surroundings before catching the eye of the renowned duo Blaq Diamond, who signed him.
Encouraged by a father who prioritised music over football, Mawelele emerged onto the scene with his debut single “All My Life”, which garnered attention and acclaim across the country, effectively launching his promising career.
Both Aphiwe and Mawelele have swiftly cultivated a dedicated following, and Donald’s recognition of their contributions shines a much-deserved spotlight on the next generation of South African talent.
Their love song, “Romeo & Juliet”, released earlier this month, cemented their place in the industry by achieving an impressive one million views on YouTube within just ten days.
The track is celebrated for its vibrant Afro-pop sound, blending traditional beats with modern influences - a soundscape reminiscent of the iconic collaborations of the late Robbie Malinga with artists like Kelly Khumalo and Naima Kay.
Fans eagerly await more from this dynamic duo. They have teased upcoming material on TikTok, suggesting that their collaboration is far from over.