The class of 2026: South Africa’s rising music stars

IF YOUR playlists feel tired, this is your sign to refresh them.

- LUTHO PASIYA

MIDNIGHT Avenue is a youth alternative rock band from Chatsworth, Durban, made up of five members brought together by a shared love for live music and honest expression. | Supplied

(Supplied)

Across the country, a new wave of artists is creating music with heart, purpose and identity.

From KZN to Gauteng, from rock stages to amapiano dance floors, these voices are shaping the sound of now and the future.

Here are the emerging South African artists who deserve your attention this year.

DJ Veek is a producer, songwriter and DJ from Ladysmith, now based in Durban.

His sound combines traditional 1990s South African rhythms with modern house music and amapiano. The result feels rooted yet forward-looking, familiar yet new.

He has already worked with respected names such as Nkosazana Daughter, Zee Nxumalo, DJ Zinhle, MaWhoo and Babalwa M. These collaborations reflect both his growing reputation and his ability to adapt across styles without losing his identity.

Inspired by his father’s musical background, Veek speaks often about shaping the future of African sound, not only contributing to it.

Last month, he released an EP titled Nkosi with Criimora b.k.z. In announcing the project, he thanked his supporters and explained that the EP carries their story and their prayers in the form of art.

He described it as a labour of love and a reflection of gratitude to the community that has carried their journey.

Midnight Avenue is a youth alternative rock band from Chatsworth in Durban.

The group is made up of five teenage musicians who came together towards the end of 2024, united by a love for live music and honest expression. Their sound leans into atmosphere and emotion, built for the stage with electric guitar, drums, slower songs and vocals that feel soft but gritty.