Maskandi is no longer just for the older generation. In 2025, it is one of the fastest-growing music genres in South Africa. Youth are listening. Artists are innovating. And the charts are starting to show it.
Rooted in Zulu tradition, Maskandi is now moving across provinces, radio stations, and digital platforms. It still keeps its deep cultural base. But it is also evolving. That’s what makes it powerful right now.
What Is Maskandi?
Maskandi (or maskanda) is a Zulu folk music style. It uses guitar, concertina, and vocal storytelling. The sound is raw and rhythmic. The lyrics are personal, poetic, and often spiritual or political.
It’s been called the “Zulu blues.” Many songs are about daily life, family, land, love, and respect. The music speaks straight, without filters.
Why Is It Growing?
Several things are pushing Maskandi forward in 2025:
- More young artists – Youth are now leading the sound. They’re keeping the roots, but updating the feel.
- Better access to music tech – Artists can record from anywhere. Cheap software and phones help.
- Social media – TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube bring local songs to national attention fast.
- Live shows and tours – Maskandi concerts now pull big crowds, especially in rural KZN, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga.
This growth is not hype. It’s real. Maskandi is now found in taxis, radio playlists, street parties, and mainstream charts.
Youth Are Driving It
Many young people feel lost between modern culture and tradition. Maskandi helps them reconnect. Artists like Khuzani, Mthandeni “Igcokama Elisha”, and Ntencane speak directly to that space.
These artists don’t water down the music. They just make it more current. Their lyrics talk about fame, social pressure, betrayal, hustle, and heritage — all mixed with traditional messages.
Even school kids know Maskandi hits now. That wasn’t the case 10 years ago.
It Still Sounds Traditional
Even with growth, the core of Maskandi hasn’t changed. You’ll still hear:
- Finger-picked guitar
- Deep male vocals
- Group call-and-response singing
- Zulu praise poetry (izibongo)
This keeps the genre grounded. New songs still carry values. Respect for elders, love for family, connection to land — these themes never leave.
Who’s Leading the Scene in 2025?
These are some of the top names in Maskandi right now:
- Khuzani Mpungose – Still the biggest name. Fills stadiums. Tops charts. Has loyal fans.
- Mthandeni “Igcokama Elisha” – Very popular with youth. Known for deep voice and sharp lyrics.
- Ntencane – Blends Maskandi with modern topics. Appeals to younger listeners.
- Shwi noMtekhala – Long-time legends, still releasing relevant work.
- Thokozani Langa – Respected for keeping spiritual themes in the music.
There are also new voices emerging on TikTok and local radio — especially from rural areas.
Maskandi and Modern Platforms
In 2025, digital platforms are key. Artists release on:
- Spotify and Apple Music
- Facebook Watch
- YouTube Music
- Datafilehost (still popular in rural towns)
Fans can stream or download easily. Many artists now upload music videos, behind-the-scenes studio clips, and short freestyles. This brings the audience closer.
What Makes Maskandi Different?
Most pop music in SA sounds global. Maskandi sounds local. It doesn’t copy trends. It stands on its own.
This is why it connects deeply with people. It reflects real life — rural and urban. It has meaning, depth, and energy.
It’s also one of the few genres where live instruments are still used heavily in recordings and shows.
The Future Looks Bright
Maskandi is no longer “old people’s music.” It’s part of South Africa’s modern identity. As more artists take pride in their language and roots, Maskandi will keep growing.
Expect more collaborations with gospel, trap, and amapiano artists. But the heart of the sound will stay rooted in Zulu tradition.
Words
In 2025, Maskandi is not just surviving — it’s rising. It speaks to a wide range of people, from elders to high school kids. It’s Zulu, it’s honest, and it’s growing every day.
If you want to know where SA music is going, look at Maskandi. It’s already there.
Find new music that matches your taste Here.
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