How Maskandi is winning over a new generation on TikTok in South Africa
Legendary Maskandi artist UHHashi Elimhlophe performing
Image: File
South Africa has produced many genres over the years that have captured the nation’s heart, from Kwaito to Gqom and others, but few have lasted as long or run as deep as Maskandi music.
Maskandi is believed to have originated in the early to mid-20th century in the rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal, primarily among Zulu migrant workers who travelled to urban centres like Durban and Johannesburg in search of work.
These workers used Maskandi as a way to share their stories about the challenges of leaving home, the hardships of urban life, and the deep connections to their culture.
Since then, the genre has evolved with each generation and remains one of the biggest and most influential music styles in South Africa. In recent years, the genre has even managed to win the coveted Song of the Year award on South Africa’s biggest radio station, uKhozi FM, with artists such as Mroza Fakude, Mthandeni SK, and Khuzani all having received this honour.
According to Spotify, "Nearly half of Maskandi’s listeners are under 35, and many are gravitating to our Bhinca Nation playlist, which is the destination for the genre’s hottest hits. Averaging more than two million plays each month, the playlist has grown by more than 3,000% since 2022".
TikTok is one of the biggest reasons Maskandi is making a comeback. Young South Africans are using the platform to celebrate Maskandi in fresh and fun ways.
Here are some of the most popular Maskandi songs gaining attention on TikTok:
Uyoncengwa Unyoko by Mafikizo
Released earlier this year, this song has become an online sensation, with young people posting videos featuring its catchy beats.
Kulate Kulate by Limit Nala
This track has taken off on TikTok, with users jumping on trending challenges and lip-sync videos using its infectious chorus.
Sawubona ntliziyo yam by Zwide
This song has become even more popular on TikTok, with many users using it in dance and storytime videos. It was also sampled by American rapper DaBaby, showing how Maskandi is starting to reach audiences outside of South Africa.
Hit after Hit by uGatsheni
A certified banger that has had audiences vibing across TikTok since last year. The song’s energy and catchy lyrics have made it a go-to track for dance videos.
Gucci by Mthandeni SK
Last year’s Song of the Year on uKhozi FM, Gucci became a viral hit both on radio and TikTok. With its smooth blend of Maskandi and modern flair, the track had fans singing along, dancing, and creating content that helped push the genre even further into the mainstream.