Celebrating a new generation of exceptional female artists in music

EVERY August, South Africa pauses to honour the courage, strength and brilliance of its women and in 2025, the celebration feels especially resonant as a new wave of dynamic young women reshapes the music industry with unapologetic talent and fearless creativity.

- LUTHO PASIYA

From soulful vocalists to genre-bending producers and sharp-tongued lyricists, these young artists are not only creating music - they are crafting culture.

Whether it is the hypnotic beats of Amapiano, the healing power of gospel or the raw truth-telling of hip hop, women are commanding the mic and shifting the narrative.

They are occupying space in genres traditionally dominated by men and carving out their own identities in sonic landscapes that have long lacked their voices.

Here are six rising stars whose journeys, voices and artistry deserve the spotlight this Women's Month:

Thatohatsi

Hailing from the tight-knit community of Payneville Springs in Gauteng, Thatohatsi's musical path began in the pews of her local church and the grassroots platforms of community arts.

Her voice both emotionally rich and technically honed developed early, not in glossy studios, but in shared spiritual experiences and community connection.

Her breakout track Xolele, created alongside Ntando Yamahlubi, Mphoet, Blaq Note and Jaz, became a runaway hit on TikTok, resonating deeply with a generation hungry for music that is both catchy and meaningful.

But it was not just virality that defined her moment it was her raw sincerity. Her voice does not just sing; it speaks, it reaches, it heals.

Since then, she has continued her rise, impressing industry veterans not with gimmicks, but with consistency, lyrical honesty and a fierce work ethic.

For Thatohatsi, every song is a conversation and every performance an offering of vulnerability and power.

Neo Dube

Born and raised in Umlazi, Neo Dube's journey from church choirs to major awards stages is a testament to passion, vision and soul.