Maskandi, a Zulu traditional music genre once associated with older generations and rural life, is experiencing a revival among young South Africans, driven by modern artists blending its rhythms with hip hop, house, and Afro-pop. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube have fueled this resurgence, with artists such as Khuzani, Mthandeni SK, Mzukulu, and Ntencane amassing millions of views and attracting passionate Millennial and Gen-Z fans.
The genre’s appeal lies in its cultural authenticity and evolving sound, as evidenced by personal playlists featuring tracks like Uzophela Umcimbi by Mafikizolo, Awuhlabe Kabili by Limit Nala, Umkami Sengalile by Mjolisi, and Unikhodima by Nhloso Khwela featuring Shenge Wasehlalankosi. Social media reflects a vibrant community of young listeners who find Maskandi a connection to their roots, language, and identity, unlike mainstream pop.
@djletaken RICHARDSBAY @Doek on Fleek Lifestyle Owenumber number 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 at it again…Available for bookings 🫠🫠#maskandi #maskandivibes #sama28 #maskandimusic
Spotify data highlights Maskandi as South Africa’s fastest-growing genre over the past two years, with nearly half its listeners under 35. The platform’s Bhinca Nation playlist has grown by over 3,000% since 2022, averaging 2 million monthly streams. Streaming gains since 2023 include Mafikizolo (+897%), Mshinwemali (+495%), Sminofu (+258%), Inkos’yamagcokama (+86%), and Mzukulu (+79%), alongside rising acts like Limit Nala and Menzi Music.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify Sub-Saharan Africa’s head of music, stated, “Spotify is more than a streaming platform—it’s a cultural catalyst. We’re proud to support a new era of Maskandi artists and fans who are redefining what it means to be proudly Zulu in a global music world.” Actor Wiseman Mncube, in an interview with Independent Media Lifestyle, emphasized Maskandi’s cultural significance, noting its poetic and healing qualities that counter misrepresentation of African culture.
@abutitk 🔥😭I live for Maskandi Music❤️🎶✍🏽(@LiMiT_Nala )#fyp #viral #teddykidcomedicskits #foryou #maskandivibes #🔥 #trendingsound #maskandi #roadto800k #maskandimusic #limitnala #trendingvideo #explore #mzansitiktok #🇿🇦 #❤️
For many, Maskandi is a cultural archive, celebrating Zulu language, customs, and struggles through raw, honest storytelling about love, family, politics, and social issues. Its unique sound—featuring intricate guitar picking, concertina, and percussion—resonates deeply, while its presence at family gatherings and community events fosters generational connections. For fans like those growing up in the 1990s, Maskandi evokes nostalgia, tying personal and emotional histories to South Africa’s transitional era, making it a powerful voice of identity and pride.
Source: African Publicity
