The VERVE RoundUp Vol. 5 - Spring Edition

A massive round of applause to all the musicians within Southern Africa who put out incredible bodies of art for the masses to experience. It felt like new music of all different varieties was constantly flying at me, wave after wave. With the Spring season finally here, it’s pretty clear to see that everyone is locked in and ready to finish the year with a bang.

This past month, the VERVE team constantly kept an eye on the frequent releases. This may be my longest list yet, knowing damn well I could’ve included a lot more (I’m only human). Doing what we do best with this series, I’ve compiled a list of the joints that had me and the team cherishing how much talent we have in and around South Africa, ranging from all diverse sounds and genres.

And don’t forget to peep our RoundUp playlist, hosting all the music releases you’ll see down below. The support goes a long way for these promising virtuosos.

artillery - b4 the project (15 August 2025)

Shaking the room with explosive Underground Trap instrumentals, artillery’s two-pack release had me raging along with the loud 808s, heavy hi-hats, and his hypnotizing performance that had me blasting the two tracks at full volume (especially the track “designer everything” alongside twin.smoke). This new genre has birthed a new generation of unique Trap geniuses, and you can bet your ass artillery has what it takes to elevate the widely adored genre to the highest level.

Bahle Hadebe - Pieces Of Us (1 August 2025)

This track had me feeling all kinds of emotions, swooning me with how jaw-dropping Bahle’s vocal performance sounded over the superlative Soul/Jazz instrumentals. Everything came together so perfectly, having Bahle’s voice gracefully soar over the soothing instrumentals, while telling his tale of his experiences of being in a loving relationship. This was an absolute joy of a listening experience from the talented performer, and I can only imagine how amazing this must sound in front of a live audience.

Ben Reid - TIME ALONE (8 August 2025)

Going 3 for 3 aint an easy accomplishment. However, that’s exactly what Ben achieved, following his earlier releases of “CONNECT” and “CRITICAL”. This newest single had the singer pour his heart out over this enticing love ballad that impressed me with how glorious all the instrumentals sounded, guided by his heavenly performance. A wonderful tune from Cape Town’s very own hat-trick hero.

Bethe - Enemy (8 August 2025)

Stirring souls with this absorbing release, Bethe dropped this gem of a ballad that had her fully exploring and flaunting her vocal talents over a delectable Afro Pop beat that had me feeling infatuated with her wholesome sound. This definitely was a triumphant debut effort from the young songbird, and we look forward to following her music journey.

BLVCK HIPPY - NOW OR NEVER (16 August 2025)

That first bar, when HIPPY states how he’s been doing the most, but he’s still underrated, is a simple fact. This Hip Hop joint had the lyricist unveil his truest intentions of being involved in the rap game and his determination and mission to make it to the top. I loved how his exhilarating bars flowed over the groovy beat that had a looming 808 calmingly boom in the background, creating this environment of eeriness.

Brendon Tayler - BAD BOY (27 August 2025)

I don’t even know how to begin describing how pleasing this release was from the Jozi star. This track had the virtuoso do his thing over a wonderful beat that somehow managed to blend both sounds from the Hip Hop and Amapiano genres, combining groovy elements from Amapiano with the dark tones from Hip Hop. This was such a refreshing listening experience from the talented hitmaker.

briann Bc x banzai x Clarisa - 3FLY (9 August 2025)

The talented crewmembers from Botswana’s Ascension Pleas collective dropped this wonderful yet perplexing tune, having crunchy, distorted instrumentals create a sonically pleasant environment for them to display their gifts. I especially enjoyed Clarisa’s appearance on this track, swaying me with her luscious vocal performance and her little poetry segment halfway through this sweet track.

BoMalone - BETTER LATE THAN NEVER III (15 August 2025)

Consistency is key, and BoMalone is clearly aware of that. He only released his last tape (“B.L.U Tapes, Vol 2”) last month, yet he’s already followed that up with the third instalment to his “BETTER LATE THAN NEVER” series, wowing me with how vibrant and stimulating everything sounded. I especially enjoyed the tracks “YUH!” and “FLO-STATE” featuring Freeflo, an artist I have not heard of in ages, and it reminded me why I fell in love with his sound way back then.

Bvse x Flash Ikumkani - Ndonga Ziyaduma (27 August 2025)

This single honestly shocked me. Seeing a friend of VERVE working alongside Flash Ikumkani (an artist of the highest magnitude) was amazing for me to see. Bvse obviously didn’t waste the special moment, creating a vibe with his charming vocal performance over a bouncy beat before laying the carpet for Flash to do what he does best, flexing his Xhosa poetry with such ease. I loved this tune, and I’m so proud to see the heights Bvse is finally reaching in his journey.

C.H.A.D - What Did I Do? (29 August 2025)

Exploring a sombre yet intoxicating instrumental, C.H.A.D. did a lovely job at using this track as a way of questioning his frustrations of being in a stumbling relationship, constantly questioning what exactly he did wrong. I’ve always been a fan of C.H.A.D’s vulnerability in his music, and this one was simply perfect, especially using the dark instrumental that had heavy bass drops that matched his heavenly performance.

Chante - Sleepover (15 August 2025)

Talented singer and dancer, Chante, dropped not one, but two captivating singles, releasing “Animal” a week ago while following up with this delightful number. It was tough to choose between the two (really tough); however, “Sleepover” took the prize, dazzling me with how alluring her voice sounded over the jovial AfroPop beat. I hope more releases from the gifted songbird are on the way.

Cistamatic - Fear is the Weapon (30 August 2025)

“Psycho Bitch” already got me hooked on this Rock group's sound, but their newest project release had me fully invested with the electrifying genre that I wasn’t always too familiar with. I loved how raucous and chaotic everything sounded, having all the instruments cause a rampage behind Gabbi’s thrilling vocal performance, while they used this project to speak on real-world topics dealing with oppressions happening all over the world and how the rich benefit from it all. A very powerful offering with a powerful meaning!

Cloudy Muro - Muro Tapes (31 August 2025)

After listening to “Samba” for the first time, I found myself repeatedly coming back to that song, and once I found out Muro would be dropping a full-length project, I couldn’t contain my excitement. The wait was absolutely worth it, listening to Muro display his enchanting lyrical performances over satisfying instrumentals. It was brilliant to also see him drop newer joints with other artists I’ve been keeping a close eye on, namely ol.floww and Emenii, however, every other feature on this sparkling project had lovely appearances on this glorious release from the Jozi prodigy.

Cold Chinese Food - Vital Ital (30 July 2025)

This was such a refreshing listening experience, being my first time witnessing the works of the proficient Sam Turpin rock his sweet bars alongside The Charles Géne Suite, crafting groovy joints that blended both the Hip Hop and Jazz genres, gifting listeners with a stunning body of tunes for fans of both genres to lose themselves in. This was my first taste of Cold Chinese Food, and I loved every single serving of this flavorful project.

Double’D - we’re all a little weird and that’s okay (8 August 2025)

Blending Hip Hop and the electrifying sounds of the Rock genre, Double’D made a massive statement with this exhilarating project, invoking sounds of maliciousness throughout the album while also displaying his intriguing poetry over the exciting sounds he birthed. I wasn’t sure how to perceive this project, but after my first listen through, I fully understand what the exciting artist was trying to achieve.

dronezz - All 4 You (19 August 2025)

Pouring his heart out on this poignant ballad, dronezz used this single to ventilate his truest retrospections of being in a floundering relationship. I loved how sincere yet rousing his performance was on this misty tune, paired with the marvellous instrumental that complemented dronezz’s performance in such a flawless manner.

Dwabzi - One Minute (3 August 2025)

Gliding over a mellow yet enticing Trap-R&B instrumental, Dwabzi did a wonderful job at crafting a pleasant listening experience that brought out emotions of bliss. A trend I’ve started to pick up on Dwabzi’s distinct sound is his frequent use of gloomy and sombre instrumentals (a similar sound to his earlier release, “Die Tonight Freestyle” or “HEADLINER”) that work so well with his intoxicating cadence. It’s a sound I’ve definitely found myself loving.

GQAMI - Into The Inferno (31 July 2025)

I wish someone had told me about the talents of GQAMI before. This project introduced me to her world of complications, breaking down her story over galvanizing Soul instrumentals with a heavy load of Trap elements that made this listening experience an even better one. I especially enjoyed the track, “When I Catch You” alongside Mxchael Blue, that had her fully vent out in a vulgar manner - a moment in music you don’t usually hear too often these days.

Guluveli - fashioni$ta (15 August 2025)

Guluveli couldn’t help but use this vibrant single to brag about his stylish persona, flexing his everyday chic lifestyle, wearing the flyest garments while always posing for the camera. The beat was such a vibe to listen to, having camera flashing sounds ring behind a crunchy 808 that perfectly described what Gulu was trying to portray throughout this tune. Fashion and music definitely look good on the talented musician.

heyitskhanyi - SCREAMIN (15 August 2025)

This exhilarating release from the exciting songbird allows listeners to enter her bothered mind, expressing the troubles and loud noises screaming through her head while also wondering why nobody can hear her. Khanyi did a solid job with her performance, blowing listeners away with her stimulating vocal performance over the thrilling Pop-Rock instrumental that had me rocking along with the tune.

Iam6teen - Consider The Flowers (28 August 2025)

Inviting us into his world of alluring sounds of percussion, the highly adored drummer produced this three-track masterpiece, gifting listeners with a trio of musical treats. I loved everything about this drop, with each song seducing me with soothing environments, backed by the vibrant kicks and beats of the drums that made this short but sweet project feel so complete.

Internet Athi - Nguwe (29 August 2025)

Internet Athi’s presence in the music scene is unmatched, and it’s not that hard to understand why that’s the case. The singer is a true wizard, dropping just his second release that was filled with magic. This song explored heavy themes of love and adoration, while also displaying how powerful and top-notch a performer Athi is. I also absolutely adored the instrumental, having trumpets roar over a soulful beat. The people had been waiting for a new song since the success of his earlier release, titled “Wena”, and I’m sure they’re more than satisfied with this stunner of a tune.

In2une - .loosidity.5.5 (21 August 2025)

Dropping not one but two EPs on the same day is incredible. The brilliant beatmaker dropped this and his adjacent EP, titled “A2B.ep”, stepping away from the mic and letting his beats do all the talking, gifting listeners with alluring sounds to ease out to for any scenario. As tranquil as the beats sounded, they all did a lovely job at captivating my ears, showcasing why In2une is so highly respected within the underground world of Hip Hop.

Jade Garisch - Persephone (29 August 2025)

Jade is one of the few who can truly dominate the sound of Drum n Bass with such pleasure. The songbird did a brilliant job at performing with such elegance over the heart-stopping instrumental, having me bumping my head along with the intoxicating track. I’ve always been a subtle fan of the DnB genre, which makes me adore Jade’s sound that much more.

Jarry Pitboi - I Will Return (15 August 2025)

Returning to the game after his hair-raising “CAN’T CHANGE” project that released earlier this year, Jarry teamed up with the cerebral mind of Permi Kwaali, who crafted a heavenly instrumental that had Jarry do what he does best, narrating his engaging tale of wonder and acceptance. Big things are coming from the Capetonian lyricist, and I look forward to seeing what the duo has in store for the world to experience.

jaxobz - Teeth (22 August 2025)

A close friend of VERVE notified me about this project, which I had no idea about, and I’m so glad he did that for me. This album introduced me to jaxobz, an artist who constantly brought the energy over this electrifying offering. What intrigued me about this release was the multiple blends of genres, ranging from Rock to Electronic music, that worked so perfectly and made this release such a fun listening experience.

Jay The Bohemian - FIND A WAY (15 August 2025)

Being my first time experiencing the sounds of Jay The Bohemian, I was instantly left feeling impressed by how mature and conscientious his approach was for this engrossing Hip Hop joint, hypnotizing me with his striking lyrical abilities over a rousing instrumental that didn’t do too much while doing everything it needed to do. He’s definitely earned himself a new fan here at VERVE.

JeanClaude Downing - Are You Down? (15 August 2025)

Jumping onto the scene with this intoxicating anthem, Downing took listeners on a rapid journey through his world of nutty adventures. Everything about this intense Garage sound was fun to listen to, having loud instruments banging in the background while Downing narrated his crazy story. Listening to this song, there was never a moment of restfulness, constantly having ear-splitting sounds thrown in my face, which I absolutely had a blast experiencing.

Joshua Futura - BEFORE THINGS FELL APART (22 August 2025)

Futura’s precocious rise in the rap game has been one of the highest triumphs. I was already hooked with his earlier release, titled “Glasshouse Therapy”; however, this sophomore EP took his sound to the next level, having Futura narrating his opinions and experiences of surviving his daily surroundings as a foreigner/refugee in the harsh and cruel world of Mzansi. I loved how the rapper painted a picture of his honest thoughts through his top-notch lyrical gifts backed by outstanding Hip Hop instrumentals that made this five-track project that much superior.

Kenn Kyoto - Toothache (20 August 2025)

Kyoto did a phenomenal job at cruising through this tenacious beat - kinda taking me back to the days of Odd Future that I grew up adoring. As dark and twisted as his cadence sounded over the laidback beat, I loved how Kyoto narrated his thoughts, easily showcasing his talents as a storyteller, and I look forward to what else he has to offer for the many fans of this intriguing sound.

Khaurus - OUTSIDE (29 August 2025)

Khaurus has this certain swagger about him that oozes throughout his sound, matching his voguish ambience. This exciting EP, filled with only four tracks, had the musician explore a multitude of exotic Trap sounds that consistently maintained that thrilling energy. The track “OUTSIDE” was my favourite of the bunch, especially with the sublime cameo appearance from the exciting VAPI.

Kristi Lowe - a glimpse inside my mind (27 August 2025)

For many artists out there, a debut album means everything to them, as it fully displays what the musician is capable of doing at their highest levels. Kristi achieved just that, stunning me with how beautiful this project delivered. From the writing to the performance, everything sounded majestic, having the songbird flaunt her gifts over sounds of Pop and Jazzy-R&B sounds that charmed me from the start to the end of this wonderful offering.

Kujenga - Ransome (29 August 2025)

The people could not wait long enough for this gem to finally be released. After the release of their highly praised 2024 “In The Wake” album, Jazz lovers were left wondering what was next for the celebrated group. This two-track release by Kujenga did not disappoint, showcasing why the band is so adored, captivating listeners with alluring performances that placed listeners in a world of paradise. It’s always a blessing listening to these Capetonian Jazz heroes.

Lakei - One of Me (5 August 2025)

Using this chilled Hip Hop beat to broadcast his everyday thoughts, Lakei did a great job at crafting such a mellow environment, spitting his amusing bars over a bubbly instrumental. I enjoyed how this tune had such a laidback attitude to it, gifting me with a soothing but enjoyable listening experience.

Leo Brenin - Diary Of A Story-Teller (31 July 2025)

The moment I finished listening to the intro of this project, titled “You Cannot Have It All”, I just knew I was in for a good time ahead of me. I’ve always recognized Leo as a distinguished vocalist, but this album really showcased what he’s capable of achieving, with the singer successfully flaunting his lovely vocal performances (with a little rapping here and there) over an array of darkened Trap Soul instrumentals that gave this project that sensation of sombre romance.

Leo Brown x Rillo Beats - As My Sanity Fades (22 August 2025)

Teaming up with the talented producer, Rillo Beats, Leo used this project to voice his frustrations in life, slowly losing his sanity while trying to find a way back to reality. I adored his performance, constantly switching between rapping and singing at the highest echelon, dominating each and every offering on this seven-track album while consistently narrating his captivating story.

Lerato Orchestral Collective* - LERATO LA RONA* (11 August 2025)

Delivering sounds of innovation and enthusiasm, the exciting five-piece collective from Johannesburg manufactured a project full of powerful anthems, blending elements from the sounds of the Traditional African Jazz and Indie genres, gifting listeners with a body of electrifying numbers, especially with tracks like “BADIMO” and “SWIM” that had me oozing with joy from the euphoric listening experience I had.

LIMAA - The empath (Demo) (5 August 2025)

I adored how heavenly this single sounded by LIMAA, impressing me with her angelic vocal performance that soared over the first half of the track before the kicks forced their way into the last half of the instrumental, causing a rift between the serene environment of the track while also adding that little oomph to this sweet anthem from the rising songbird.

Livio - DIE TRYING (8 August 2025)

Attempting to try his hand at the sounds of the popular Amapiano genre, Livio’s attempt at switching up his sound was one that I found highly entertaining. Not only was the beat a vibe to listen to, Livio’s performance kept me immersed with his catchy hook and his amusing adlibbing throughout this bouncy release.

LOUNGE SINGER - CARTWHEELS III: NO SAMPLE SNITCHING (15 August 2025)

Doing what he does best, LOUNGE SINGER dropped this body of art filled with the most creative beats that had the gifted beatmaker grab samples from far and wide to complete this phenomenal project, continuing the success of his respected “CARTWHEELS” series that has continued to entertain me throughout this year.

LOZA GOD x Creed Oasis - TSIBI (15 August 2025)

I struggled to get this catchy ass hook off of this intoxicating release from the gripping LOZA GOD, displaying his flair above the eerie but exhilarating Trap beat that had me constantly bumping my head along with the tune. Creed’s cameo appearance on this track was also a perfect addition, sprinkling his gripping bars over this galvanizing song. I look forward to more work from the ascending Xhosa rapper.

Maxine Caesar - It’s Complicated (20 August 2025)

Maxine had an exceptional performance on this Soulful release, exploring themes of love and the complications that come with it. Her voice constantly shone bright on every track, impressing me with how stunning a performer she truly is, especially on tracks like “What You Want” and “Closer” which I absolutely cherished.

Manic Kabana x Lia Butler - T.Y.TO (29 July 2025)

Dominating a juicy Afrobeat, Manic showcased his lovely storytelling abilities, unveiling his truest thoughts on a perplexing relationship with a lover that had me hooked. And I cannot forget how mesmerizing Lia’s verse was on this tune, flaunting her ravishing vocal abilities over the bouncy instrumental that had me grooving along with this tantalizing single.

Mvula Drae - ëndlëssly (2 August 2025)

Expressing the hardships through his voyage in life, I loved how honest and open Mvula was on this project, fully unveiling his inner thoughts and deliberations. I couldn’t help but fall in love with the soft tones of this five-track release, having Mvula display his alluring singing gifts over an array of tenebrous instrumentals that fully portrayed the raw emotion of this EP.

Mxchael Blue x ocean - Romance Is Dead (20 August 2025)

Swooning listeners with this heavenly but melancholic offering, Blue did a sensational job at guiding us on his journey of heartbreak and having to deal with those feelings that come with that, dominating every track with his entrancing vocal performances over luscious beats and instrumentals provided by the talents of ocean. A sweet but hard listening experience for the many hopeless romantics out there.

Njebo Selah x VICEQUIAT - KARMA ‘97 (29 August 2025)

Continuing his ascension in the world of Hip Hop, Njebo made such an impact on this enthralling joint, displaying his rapping abilities while VICE continued to do what he does best, captivating the scenario with his alluring performance over the dark and gloomy instrumental - a sound they’re making their own in the rap game.

omgeskay - francais (20 August 2025)

Gliding his hypnotic performance over a bubbly Trap instrumental, I loved how omgeskay conquered this beat. His cadence matched the playful yet mysterious aura of the beat, crafting a world of seductiveness that instantly had me enamoured with his sound as an underground Trap artist.

Pijjin - a stranger (10 August 2025)

Pijjin really outdid himself on this stellar-sounding single, opening up about his dealings with being a stranger in his life while trying to cope with that reality. The performance was out of this world, having his different melodies synchronize and overlap each other, coming together to complete a sound of soulful beauty that had me feeling like I was floating in the clouds.

Phiwo - Missed Calls (15 August 2025)

One of my personal favourite songbirds out in the game right now, this brilliantly crafted project from the proficient virtuoso captured my heart with how sweet her melodic performances sounded over the different soulful ballads that had her explore moments of love in her life. Her track “Falling” already had me excited for this release, but the rest of this project made her discography that much better.

Phola, Phola x Toby From 59th - A-Team (8 August 2025)

What an absolute banger from the proficient lyricist. Phola and Toby combined their lyrical flair over this groovy Hip Hop instrumental that had them voice their thoughts on the true meaning of loyalty and trust within loved ones. It was honestly the whole vibe of this single that had me charmed, and I appreciate the energy the two brought on this vibrant release.

PHUNDO x 808 Sallie - Boston (30 July 2025)

Phundo teamed up with the highly favoured producer, 808 Sallie, gifting Trap fans with an intoxicating number, having the rapper flex his melodies over the hair-raising beat that had loud 808s booming with an eerie background noise wandering above the beat. I was left feeling bleak when the joint ended at just under two minutes, hoping there would be more, but it was still an enjoyable offering from the two virtuosos.

Pumas+Roses - SONDELA:TAKE CARE (8 August 2025)

A marvellous attempt from the profound lyricist, Pumas used this dual pack release to indulge listeners with his mystifying performance over gloomy instrumentals. I especially enjoyed BLCK’s appearance on “SONDELA”, inserting that extra bit of splendour to the already intriguing tune with his superlative singing gifts. A sound Pumas is already known for, I’m glad to see him continue to push his distinct style of music-making in such a diverse music environment.

Quin-C - Solace Is Coming (14 August 2025)

Another new artist that creeped up on my radar, Quin-C has this certain swagger about him, intriguing me with his melodramatic abilities. I loved the cameo appearances on the track “Dynamite”, having the likes of ol.floww, Chiloszn, and Keyywav do what they’re best known for, while JohnDoe_ZA impressed me with his feature on “Tequila”, with both him and Quin having a grand time on the explosive Hip Hop instrumental.

reneilwe x SundaeBeats - Here to stay (27 August 2025)

Dominating a divine instrumental, provided by the wonderfully talented SundaeBeats, reneilwe did a fantastic job at stunning listeners with this gorgeous release. I loved how flawless her performance sounded over the smooth beat, narrating her hardships of being in love. This was my first time experiencing the sounds of reneilwe, and she’s earned herself a brand new fan - I look forward to more music from her.

RGRSNW x Medicine Man - COLORS (22 August 2025)

Uniting the sounds of R&B, Soul, and Afro Beats, the skilled vocalist from Pretoria collaborated with the accomplished Medicine Man who filled this project with gorgeous beats and instrumentals that fitted RGRSNW’s stunning performance so perfectly. I really had a fun time listening to “LEAN ON ME”, possibly being my standout track from this charming EP.

RICKY - Money (15 August 2025)

I love it when a new artist introduces themselves to the world in such an engrossing way. Everything about RICKY had me intrigued, from his funky appearance to his absorbing sound, having this new release speak on his desperation for needing more money in order to fund the wants of his lover. The Indie-Rock instrumental was pleasant to listen to while the singer hypnotized me with his lively performance.

RICKY AKIMBO - Welcome To The Show (28 August 2025)

If there’s one thing I can appreciate about an artist trying to make their mark in the world of music, it’s their drive to consistently drop sensational music. RICKY is quickly building on his exceptional discography, dropping this high-voltage Rock anthem that had him showing off his roaring performance over a thunderous instrumental. That’s already three exciting releases in just three months - an impressive feat from the hungry virtuoso.

SAGE - HOME : Revolution Will Not Be Televised (25 July 2025)

Representing the small town of Uitenhage, SAGE went all out for what I believe to be his first full-length project, shaking the room with his intense wordplay over spine-chilling Hip Hop beats. While this was a joyous listening experience, I was also introduced to a bunch of newer artists for me to follow, with artists like TopBoy Mvggz, XhosaMafia NeverMiss, Hassan, and Foreverblakk all showcasing what they’re capable of doing with their musical talents.

Sani Lockeheart x BuddyLoveBeatz - Maybe It’s Me (28 July 2025)

Speaking on his position of being in many relationships while coming to the realisation that it may in fact be him who’s always the problem, Sani did a sensational job at conveying this message through his angelic performance over the shadowy Trap Soul instrumental, provided by the adept producer, BuddyLoveBeatz.

SeaC Adkins - Fucking Up The Vibe (8 August 2025)

Personally, I think SeaC Adkins may be the most underrated lyricist out in the game right now. He just has this exceptional knack of drawing listeners in with his chirpy wordplay, always managing to switch up his flow at such an impressive level. This track displayed just that, having the young poet flex his abilities over a tropical instrumental, and I can’t wait to see how far SeaC rises in the Hip Hop world.

Seba Kaapstad - 4ever (8 August 2025)

After a massive five-year hiatus, the exciting quartet finally returned with a full-bodied project that reminded many why they’re so adored and respected within the SA music scene. I loved how Soulful and fun this release was, having Manana and Zoe Modiga charm listeners with their dazzling performances over groovy instrumentals that filled my soul with satisfaction.

Sir Steez x Money Make$ - Hang it in the Louvre (13 August 2025)

The exciting tag team duo from Cape Town didn’t mess about with this release, further exploring their sound over an array of UK-inspired Hip Hop beats that kept this listening experience filled with enjoyment. I especially enjoyed the tracks “MOTION” and “WHO’S HOT”, which showcased the chemistry between Steez and Money Make$, constantly exchanging bars with each other with such ease and flair.

Skyler YSL - BIG KODAK (8 August 2025)

A project filled with ambition, Skyler put in a solid attempt at making this eleven-track project a gratifying listening experience for the masses out there. Not only was his performance attractive over an array of delightful beat selections, but the cameo appearances from the likes of BiggaBeatz, Doog Reppar, Bantu Nots, Horid The Messiah, and more were fantastic to listen to, with all of them perfectly fitting the aesthetic of this Hip Hop project.

SlickZack - ALL I NEED (1 August 2025)

Flexing his cold bars over a hard thumping selection of Hip Hop beats, SlickZack delivered with an outstanding performance that had me blasting this tune at full volume. I especially enjoyed the beat switch halfway through the track, having the skilled rapper dominate both sides of the release with his breathtaking verses.

SMURRF - Clouded By You (8 August 2025)

Love must be in the air in the world of SMURRF. This tune had the vocalist confess his obsession with a lover in his life at the highest level of praise, stating how she’s the only thing he can think about. SMURRF made this release a groovy time, dominating an Afrobeat instrumental with his alluring performance that had me wanting to get up and dance along with the attractive song.

Some.Unique.Individual - Love Tales From The Loop (29 August 2025)

A sweet project filled with soulful messages, the admirable singer did a tremendous job at exploring the negative and positive sides of love and the bitter taste those hard moments leave in our mouths. This was a blissful listening experience, with the singer maintaining a charming presence over gorgeous instrumentals that were filled with soul and affection.

Sophia Frank - BICTH (22 August 2025)

Following the success of her earlier hit, “Overrated”, Sophia Frank followed up with this banger, displaying her powerful vocal performance over a raunchy Pop-Rock instrumental while also singing about never letting anybody dictate who she really is (even while being called a bitch). This was a mighty tune with an inspirational message for the many who needed to hear this.

Spxxch x Skay Lee - A Few Minute$ of Your Time (24 August 2025)

This duo pack release from the two innovative rappers was a vibe to listen to. I especially enjoyed the first track, “Who !!!”, having the two virtuosos conquer a heavenly Hip Hop beat that had lovely violin instrumentals wander above the beat. “Fur Coat” was also a fun tune, having the duo spit their bars over a bumpy beat while they both rapped about their love for a certain girl’s style.

Stanley Branson - F.A.A.F.O (1 August 2025)

Releases of this level are why I continue to spread the work of Stanley Branson among my many peers. The guy is just too good a singer, and this tune proved just that, having the vocalist unveil his feelings of finding out about a lover’s perplexing behaviour, pouring his heart out over a seductive R&B instrumental that had me clutching my heart while listening.

Suarie - Collection One (15 August 2025)

It annoys me to see how underrated Suarie is within the rap game. After impressing me with his “Mental Exhibit” anthem that dropped earlier this year, I’ve been a fan of his amazing work. This three-track release had the Uitenhage representative continue to do what he does best, blowing me away with his galvanizing performances over an array of hair-raising Hip Hop beats.

SVMV - Don’t Go Hollow (8 August 2025)

Honestly, this was an unexpected release for me, and I was surprised to see it was released without my knowledge. Boy, am I glad I came across it when it showed up on my recommended list, and I had a heavenly time listening to SVMV’s approach to his sound, crafting a body of gloomy music that had him perform over a lovely selection of spellbinding instrumentals. I especially loved the tracks “H0LD” (featuring Somandla Nigel) and “God Bless Da Hustle” (alongside Pumas+Roses”).

Teagan - Like You Do (8 August 2025)

The Capetonian singer performed with all her might on this electrifying Pop release. This tune had Teagan express her adoration but confusion for a boy, not fully understanding how or why the man in her life makes her feel a certain way. I especially enjoyed how energetic and stimulating this track was, with Teagan’s performance easily fitting the exhilarating Pop instrumental, making this release a joy to listen to.

Titose - Falling (15 August 2025)

This stunning, soulful R&B gem had Titose woo me with how beautiful her voice sounded over this alluring instrumental, having the songbird express and admit that she has fallen in love with someone in her life. There’s just something magical about her voice, and the gifted vocalist definitely captured my soul with this special number.

tylerwrldwide x Stanley Branson - Rain On Me (29 August 2025)

This song title described this track perfectly, having the singer and producer pour their hearts out on this desirable offering. A song narrating the hardships and confusion of being in love, the two maestros put in marvellous performances that captured my heart with how exceptional and heartwarming this ballad sounded over such a heavenly instrumental, provided by the talents of tyler.

Verge - Everything (8 August 2025)

A song of loss, hope, and upliftment, Verge did a wonderful job at expanding on his honest thoughts and experiences through this magnetic release. I loved the way his performance felt like a weight being lifted off his shoulders as he narrated his story over a mesmerizing Hip Hop instrumental. I can tell you now, we’ve got a bright storyteller in our hands, and I can’t wait to see what other tales he has to tell in the near future.

VICEQUIAT x Njebo Selah - MASTER ROSHI (1 August 2025)

Dropping their bars over a haunting instrumental, Vice and Njebo combined their spellbinding poetry abilities, impressing me with how hypnotic they made the environment for this tune sound. I’ve been a die-hard fan of the two, and this new release had the duo level up their capabilities, proving to the masses why they need to be taken seriously in the world of music.

Zack Mansion - SORRY KIDS (20 August 2025)

Zack Mansion already impressed us with his earlier work alongside Jac Lou, titled “Reset”, so I was anticipating this next release, eager to see what else the talent could offer. I had a really good time listening to this seven-track project, with each track getting better than the next. Tracks like “Story Under The Sun” (featuring Lurah) and “Compromise” (alongside Tony Neetch) proved to be a true testament to his underrated craft as a rising musician.

I had a really good time exploring the works of the many artists out there. However, I’ve been seeing a ton of new work stirring up hype for the near future which I cannot wait to hear. It seems like everyone is in their bag right now and that gets me so excited.

For now, peep the works of the artists we featured in this edition of our RoundUp. You’re welcome to also check out our Spotify playlist that features most of their work and more from the many other artists in the game right now. As a community, let’s keep the support going for our future stars.