South African artists continue to gain international recognition and momentum for their artistic expression, musical prowess, and energetic boundary-pushing performances – qualities that are surely turning them into household names and brands to be reckoned with.
Part of this special breed that’s set to perform at the Afro-Punk fest in Brooklyn, New York this weekend, are Sho Madjozi, DJ Lag, Nakhane and Okzharp & Mante Ribane, joining the likes of Erykah Badu, Miguel, Tyler the Creator and Janelle Monae.
In case you have no idea why these artists made the cut, check out our favourite picks from their already stellar body of work.
Sho Madjozi
Not only is the song amazing but the music video is way too stellar and will have you singing in Swahili 10 seconds into the whole song.
Read: WATCH: Sho Madjozi’s blazing Swahili single Huku finally has a music video
DJ LAG
You haven’t seen the full power of gqom until you witness a DJ Lag set, it’s like a spiritual journey coupled with a hard-hitting bass and an uncontrollable urge to vosho (or at least attempt).
READ: WATCH: DJ Lag joins Way out West line-up
Okzharp & Mante Ribane
Music, film and choreography with a dub-futuristic-twist are what comes to mind when thinking about this duo – it almost makes you envious as to why you couldn’t come up with that.
READ: WATCH: Red Bull Music Festival highlights
Nakhane Toure
Pushing pop’s boundaries as well as presenting a complex matrix between religion, race and sexuality, Nakhane does more than just perform, he uses his past experiences to touch those who feel marginalized by societal norms.
