The VERVE RoundUp Vol. 6

Better late than never, right? After spending the past two weeks isolated in the Karoo, I had no worries as I knew I had a ton of music that dropped in September to keep me company.

With the anticipated festive season quickly approaching, musicians all over the nation pulled their weights, releasing the finest tunes for the country to explore and enjoy, ranging from all kinds of different genres. I guess it must be crunch time for the many artists in Southern Africa, as I found my list of releases doubling since the first time we started doing our monthly RoundUps.

I hope you enjoy the list below and find something you might like. If so, show the artists some love and continue to show support for them. You can also find the music down below on our VERVE RoundUp playlist on Spotify and Apple Music.

Alexa Haasbroek - Hot Girl (12 September 2025)

Releasing her second ballad of the year, Alexa captivated my ears with “Hot Girl”. The level of flawlessness in her performance blew me away, with her voice triumphing above a heavenly Folk/Country instrumental that had alluring guitar notes gliding over the track. Still considered a novice in the scene, Alexa is doing a marvellous job at making a name for herself with her refreshing sound.

Alto - Nothing Has Changed (26 September 2025)

Manufacturing beats of excellence, the wizardry of Alto was lovely to experience, having the talented producer craft the most dynamic beats that blended elements of soft Jazz and Soul throughout the four tracks. This created the perfect environment for lyricists like Kijana Damu, passionfruitdilla, BABA KUSHI, Gusto, and Dome Yahshua to share their stories through rap.

Anica Kiana - not the same. (26 September 2025)

Blending sounds of cheerfulness from the Pop genre with the riveting sounds from the Rock genre, Kiana’s newest EP had her fully flaunting her gifts over the expressive instrumentals, showing a side of her that many had been wanting from her. Tracks like “Little Boy Ego” and “Everything Fades Away” were my personal favourites, displaying how powerful Kiana’s vocal performances can truly be.

Apexdontplay - 33°59’S,18°34’E (28 August 2025)

This two-track release from the Xhosa Hip Hop sensation was one hell of a listening experience. I really enjoyed “2Sec Baby III (Freestyle)”, however, the track “No Pressure” took home the trophy, having the exciting prospect team up with the exhilarating Creed Oasis, having both of them shake the room with their electrifying bars over a menacing Trap instrumental. Honestly, after a release like this, I’m going to need Apex in the studio more often - the kid knows how to craft sounds of high voltage.

Archi - THAT’S WHAT YOU GET (19 September 2025)

After just a little over a year-long wait, Archi finally returned to the scene, releasing this funky number that had him express his frustrations of constantly finding himself in pre-expected troubling situations (situations many of us have definitely found ourselves in). Archi’s performance had him bring about his story through brilliant singing moments that shone alongside a gripping Punk beat.

AYON - Usuku Ohuhle (5 September 2025)

The “Today will be a good day, chommi” chorus from this exceptional release from the Durban virtuoso was one I could not pull out of my head. This track had such a smooth vibe, having the musician entertain listeners while expanding on the realities of people pretending to be okay, even though they’re really not. This was my first time experiencing the sounds of Ayon, and I look forward to what more she has to release in the near future.

BABA KUSHI x Angelo Supastara - SKHAFTIEN! (14 September 2025)

BABA KUSHI is a name you'd better familiarise yourselves with. I’ve quickly become such a fan of the rapper, pulling in dark and twisted elements into not only his performances but also his instrumentals, which was splendid to experience on this track. And that appearance from Supastara was phenomenal to listen to, having the prominent lyricist stun listeners with her distinct voice. This was a great release from the two artists, fully displaying their capabilities in the rap game.

Ben Reid - I DON’T FEEL LIKE, I SHOULD FEEL LIKE THIS (19 September 2025)

Finally dropping the EP, Reid absolutely crushed it with this enchanting five-track release. I’ve been grateful to have followed his come up with his earlier releases of “CRITICAL” and “CONNECT” up until this project release that had the singer allure listeners with his charming vocal performances. I especially enjoyed the track “TIME ALONE” that had Reid soar over a sublime Pop-Rock instrumental. This has been a glorious year for the rising musician that I’m sure he’s proud of.

Ben September - ANXIETY (19 September 2025)

I recall the first time hearing September’s striking voice on his cameo appearance on Prince Kaybee’s “Breakfast In Soweto” and wondering who the hell sang that beautiful chorus on the dance number. That’s when I became a Ben September fan. This newest release from the Sasolburg singer had him unveil his thoughts of navigating while also struggling with love over a sombre Trap-R&B instrumental, having him flaunt his delicate vocal performance that made this track that much superior.

Bethe - Paper Love (26 September 2025)

Quickly following her earlier release, titled “Enemy”, Bethe’s newest love ballad, “Paper Love”, had her pour her heart out, fully displaying the hardships she’s had to go through of being in love and the challenges that come with that. I loved how angelic her performance sounded over the mesmerizing instrumental. Still only being released as the raw version, I still had a great time experiencing this beautiful tune.

BoMalone - SHAWTY MUSIK & DEMONS II (19 September 2025)

Serious question…Does BoMalone get any sleep? This newest release makes it his fourth project release in 2025, a stat I cannot wrap my head around but can simply admire. This sequel to his earlier “SHAWTY MUSIK & DEMONS” release had Bo flex both his singing and rapping abilities over an array of entrancing Hip Hop beats, and I especially loved listening to the opening track, “REDEMPTION.”.

Bvse - Gangelele (25 September 2025)

Bvse did it once again, utilizing his talents to craft a vibey tune for listeners to groove to. I enjoyed how fun and bubbly this joint sounded, having Bvse ride the groovy Hip Hop instrumental with his distinct vocal performance, successfully adding another banger to his impressive discography.

Dartfrogs x Scarface Panda x Earlridge x Ukhona - One More Blunt (26 September 2025)

Everyone on this wonderful release put in impeccable performances on this groovy joint. This track had Earlridge do what he does best, displaying his highly appreciated singing over the jovial instrumental crafted by the incredibly gifted Scarface Panda, while Ukhona’s verse had him spitting like his life depended on it. This tantalizing release was a joy to experience, and I can’t wait to see what else the collective could potentially cook up next.

Dilez - Warm Duvet Covers (30 August 2025)

Being my first time listening to the sound of Dilez, I wasn’t sure what to expect heading into this project. This release from the young musician was a lovely listening experience, with tracks like “City’s On Fire” and the outro “Honestly” stunning me with how wholesome yet powerful Dilez’s performance sounded over the R&B instrumentals.

Double’D - Free Gaza* (19 September 2025)

Heavy bass, eerie noises, and booming instrumentals were the perfect scenario for Double’D to flex his prowess. This Trap tune had the rapper speak on his everyday thoughts of his day-to-day experiences, while also planting the powerful reminder to free the people in Gaza. An exhilarating release from a unique character in the music scene in South Africa.

Drumfish - Pretty Things (16 September 2025)

The four-piece Rock band from Jozi disturbed the peace with their latest electrifying release. I loved how loud and vicious the instrumentals sounded, having a malicious electric guitar roar over the booms of the drums while their lead singer raged over the instrumentals with his intoxicating performance. Songs like this make you wish you were in a crowded room, fully experiencing this in a live scenario.

D F W N E x ANDILETHEBALLER - Mpfaloyi Tukie (15 September 2025)

Not too long ago, I found myself having a fantastic time listening to D F W N E’s earlier project release, titled “R A T L O U.”, so I was more than happy to see him release new work. This soulful tune had the musician team up with ANDILETHEBALLER, blessing listeners with a heavenly single to explore and lose themselves in.

Ékedefine - LIP’S (19 September 2025)

Grabbing and blending sounds from both the AfroPop and Latin genres, the rising starlet from Cape Town perfectly orchestrated this four-track project, telling her story of being in love while also stunning me with how suave and vibrant each and every track sounded.

Erin Mopp - Fade Away (5 September 2025)

Hopping onto the popular AfroHouse genre, Erin’s performance on the thrilling dance instrumental was a blast to experience, literally having me feel like I was fading away with the way her luscious vocal performance sounded over the hypnotizing beat. This is definitely one of those tracks you need to play on those hot summer drives around the beaches.

Face and the Features - Heart and Soul (12 September 2025)

This tune from the Capetonian Alt-Pop virtuoso was an absolute blast to experience. I enjoyed how groovy Face’s performance was on the upbeat instrumental that had synth noises bouncing around the beat while he dominated the beat with his galvanizing singing performances, vocalizing his love for a special someone in his life.

Fai - Still I Rise (5 September 2025)

Finally making her official debut into the world of music, the singer from Cape Town released this single, captivating my heart with how powerful yet elegant her performance was on the eccentric R&B instrumental. A song of upliftment and inspiration, Fai did a delightful job at making a first impression and we’re delighted to know more is surely on the way from the young songbird.

Frank Apollo - Better Days Are Comin (19 September 2025)

Apollo’s talent in producing the most wondrous beats in the music scene is a talent I am highly thankful for, and this ten-track project reflected exactly that. Apollo’s instrumentals presented the most soulful environments for acts like Lowfeye, Ovuyonke, Chvrlie Earthling, and others to dominate with their incredible cameo appearances on this wholesome release.

Frank, The Outcast - i’ll see you later, My Lover (1 September 2025)

Only four tracks long, this EP had me begging for more after my first listen through. Frank’s ability to flaunt both his singing and rapping abilities was a delight to experience, uncovering his perspective on being in love over sophisticated Soul instrumentals. I especially appreciated hearing the likes of ol.floww on “Later, My lover” and his back-to-back rap session with Sean E on “welcome to THE INDUSTRY”.

Hugo Pooe - VILLAIN (19 September 2025)

Hugo’s dynamic sound is one that never fails to disappoint. This track had the mysterious enigma dominate an upbeat Garage-Rock instrumental, gracefully performing over the energetic instrumental that constantly had drums beating alongside Hugo, which had my head bumping up and down along with the exhilarating track.

Hunter Rose - Fine Wine (19 September 2025)

When times are tough, there’s no better cure than a glass of fine wine. Hunter’s newest single had the songbird express feelings of acknowledging the bad days while also appreciating the good days, embracing and cherishing those moments while getting better over time, and celebrating those moments over a glass of the finest grapes. Her performance was phenomenal on this soulful release, and I especially enjoyed the inspirational messaging behind this tune.

Iam6teen - June (19 September 2025)

Doing what he’s famously known for, Iam6teen produced a beat filled with vibrance and colour. The keys of the piano sounded splendid over an array of floating, ringing noises and buzzing sounds that made this track that much wholesome to experience.

Jarry Pitboi x Permi Kwaali - AMONGST THE PIGEONS (19 September 2025)

The bright duo from Cape Town teamed up to produce an album filled with brilliance. The blend between Jarry’s introspective poetry and Kwaali’s spell-binding beat selection was amazing to experience, truly feeling like the two were really soaring amongst the pigeons. This was a project I was especially heavily anticipating, and I’m grateful it came out even better than I had expected it to.

Jemapelle James - For Real (26 September 2025)

This one is for all the hopeless romantics out there. I loved how this love ballad from the eccentric Jozi-based vocalist was so delightfully written and performed, having the singer express his love and adoration for a potential lover, unveiling how he just wants to get lost in love with that hopeful lover in his life.

JHX - Eclipse (11 September 2025)

What I adored about this jovial release was how tropical and fresh it all sounded, having the singer flaunt his gifts over a groovy instrumental that sprinkled a little bit of House music during the chorus, which had me vibing throughout my listening experience. I had a lot of fun listening to this one.

Joda Kgosi - ME, MYSELF, AND MIND (26 September 2025)

You can easily tell how emotional a project this was for Joda to craft. Each and every track had her pour her heart and soul into this ten-track album, displaying how vulnerable and open she is to listeners entering her headspace and understanding her true mind state. I enjoyed how a track like “And I” could switch from a sorrowful vibe to a track like “Reaching” that picked up the tempo into a more jovial sound, blessing listeners with her glorious vocal performances.

Joshua Futura - LET THEM PROFILE (12 September 2025)

I’m telling you all now, FUTURA SZN is still commencing. Futura’s latest offering to the Hip Hop scene had the ascending poet flex his stimulating bars over a bouncy instrumental that had him narrating his everyday experiences. And that beat switch near the crux of the track was awesome to experience.

Kamve - Umoya Wasekhaya (30 August 2025)

Kamve and his guitar created magic with this ten-track offering. Simply producing sounds of wonder with the strums of his guitar, listeners were presented with heavenly instrumentals that balanced so well with the emptiness in the background of the tracks, especially on tracks like “ndinombulelo” or “crested hills”. It’s always wonderful seeing what a musician can craft with just one instrument by their side.

Kazimmons - Neolithic FolkLore (10 September 2025)

This was an exceptional Hip Hop listening experience. Nothing too complicated. Just sophisticated Hip Hop beats with attractive Jazz and Soul samples merged with flawless lyricism from the talented poet. This nine-track project had me fully invested, listening closely to every verse and bar that constantly had me intrigued. Keep an eye out for this ascending rapper in the scene. I have high hopes for him.

Kila G x LUUKHANYO - Together Baby (15 September 2025)

Sweeping listeners off their feet, the R&B heartthrob really put on a show with this number. Kila’s voice on this steamy instrumental was sublime to experience, having the vocalist pack a punch with his heavenly performance, a trait Kila is consistently gaining a reputation for having in the music scene.

Kgaldrogo - Feels Easy (12 September 2025)

My first time listening to the works of Kgaldrogo, I was left feeling impressed with what I had experienced, listening to the musician gracefully perform over sweet instrumentals that merged both the R&B and Hip genres, building a project of exuberance. I also enjoyed the fact that this project introduced me to a whole bundle of newer artists like Guluvakazi, Zoey T, Seru the Ellipsis, ListenToFable, Just Jlabba, Nubian Flow, and PhilaBoi K.

kyabo - I know you see me in her (19 September 2025)

Seducing listeners with their enchanting vocal performance, the way kyabo’s voice lingered over the delicate keys of the piano was magnificent to listen to. I appreciated the soft Swing Jazz instrumental that had them unveil the truths behind a relationship that isn’t based on what they truly thought it was. A stunning performance from the incredibly gifted virtuoso.

LOUNGE SINGER - PARTY TRICKS (21 September 2025)

The favoured beatmaker and producer from Cape Town did it once again, providing listeners with a mellow beat that sampled absorbing different elements that made this track a simple yet enticing offering to listen to for any sort of situation.

Lungelo Manzi - INYANGA (7 September 2025)

I remember instantly becoming a fan of Lungelo’s project release, titled “Journal Entries 2”, that dropped earlier this year and had me hooked from the get-go. So, I obviously couldn’t contain my excitement when I noticed the announcement of his newest EP, and I loved every bit of this soulful release, having Lungelo explore different topics that occur throughout his life while displaying that through his captivating vocal performances over chilled Soul instrumentals.

LUUKHANYO - Venture (19 September 2025)

As stunning a track as this was to listen to, this was also a discomforting listening experience as LUUKHANYO did a splendid job at painting a picture of the hardships he had to endure growing up in the hood through his brilliant performance. That “I had been to 14 funerals before I went to a wedding” bar really hit me hard and summed up how mighty of a track this truly is. Tunes like this make me even more excited for his “LUCKY UU” album, releasing soon.

Mas Genesis - Do You Miss Me? (19 September 2025)

Genesis is an outstanding storyteller. I loved how he narrated his tale of falling in love with a girl, starting from the days they met in university to listening to how their relationship blossomed, having the musician question if she misses him while admitting how he constantly misses her. This was a personal favourite release of mine, and I adored everything about this joint.

Njebo Selah x BLCK - CHICKEN DUST (24 September 2024)

Njebo and BLCK’s collaborative efforts on this tranquil love song was a top notch listening experience. I loved how calm and soothing this track sounded, having the two gifted musicians sharply narrate their love stories through rap poetry and fascinating singing performances towards the end of the tune.

Ntatao x DoxThe_Maverick - Maletsatsi (12 September 2025)

This release from the Lesotho virtuoso was one of the most heavenly tracks I have heard in a long time. Everything about this tune was outstanding, with Ntatao and Dox both uplifting listeners with their angelic singing and rapping verses that fitted so perfectly with the smooth and sophisticated Jazzy instrumental.

omgeskay - genese (8 September 2025)

Dominating sounds of the Underground genre, omgeskay wasted no time flexing his raunchy bars over mindboggling Trap instrumentals on this album that was so much fun to listen to. With the growing genre finally being established in Mzansi, I hope to see omgeskay up at the top in the near future.

palesapetalz x Scarface Panda - flowers bloom in spring (30 September 2025)

A new artist I’ve kept a close eye on, I recently discovered palesa after her release of “owl”, a soothing track that introduced me to her distinct, tiny-pitched cadence that was a refreshing sound to me. Her latest three-track project was fantastic to listen to, having palesa hypnotize listeners with her magnetic performances over spellbinding beats, crafted by the cherished producer, Scarface Panda.

Poker Face - Hear Me Now (18 September 2025)

This young rapper from the Mother City clearly had a lot to get off his chest, using this stimulating track to unveil his deepest thoughts while also reassuring himself that he’s on the right path in his career to achieve his destiny. This was an inspiring tune to experience, and the Brazilian Phonk-inspired beat was a vibe. You can never go wrong with a little puchacha.

PopSta Rich x Umntungwambulazi - Dirty North II (5 September 2025)

Now officially PopSta Richi, the entertaining all-rounder teamed up with Umntungwambulazi to provide listeners with a vibrant new single that merged elements from Kwaito, House, and Hip Hop, birthing an explosive track that was exciting to experience. Also, a shoutout must go to Certified Genius for producing the hair-raising beat.

Pro CHxLD - Thamsanqa (11 September 2025)

The lyricist carrying Mfuleni on his back dropped this classic of a project, sharing his views on his journey as a determined young man. His ability to narrate stories through Xhosa wordplay was wonderful to experience, constantly dominating every instrumental on every joint on this nine-track album.

reneilwe x Creed Oasis x PURE x Dre Autumn - LET ME IN (26 September 2025)

A song that has been stuck in my head for the past couple of weeks, this collaborative effort from the four musicians was prestigious to listen to. I consider this joint an R&B classic in SA, having reneilwe sway listeners with her angelic and unforgettable performance alongside Creed and PURE’s melodic executions and Autumn’s delightful rap appearance. reneilwe’s ascension in the music world is exciting to witness, and I can’t wait to see how she grows from this wonderful release.

SeaC Adkins - Rhythm And Poetry (13 September 2025)

If you’re a lover of traditional Hip Hop and Boom Bap rap, you’ll love this offering from the Vaal representative. This seven-track EP showcased how exceptional a wordsmith Adkins truly is, displaying how mature a lyricist he is, gracing the Jazzy instrumentals with his sophisticated bars.

Spooko Mfana - Pelo Nama Le Moea (12 September 2025)

Spooko may have dropped one of the finest Hip Hop joints of the year. This release brought me so much joy as I was blessed enough to experience what I consider ‘real music’. From the bars to the singing performances, to the beat selection, everything about this release was jaw-dropping, and I must applaud the musician from Welkom for manufacturing such a spectacular project.

S-Que x Jiggy Stapes - I’m Not Lost (26 September 2025)

Whatever S-Que touches always turns to gold. CoLlaborating with the incredibly gifted Jiggy Stapes, the duo produced a track full of love and warmth, having S-Que vocalizing where his headspace is currently at in a complex, loving relationship. This track was full of Soul and a lot of emotion poured out of the heart of the singer, and it’s music like this that I’m here for.

Surreal Sessions - Dollars & White Pipes (4 September 2025)

It’s awesome to know Gqom is still alive and thriving with acts like Surreal Sessions continuing to push the highly appreciated genre. This project was stacked with bangers, with each track having the iconic booming sounds of the genre, with stellar performances from the features. With the festive season approaching, I can definitely hear a number of these tracks blasting throughout the clubs in Mzansi.

Teagan - IDWGOT (26 September 2025)

After fully listening to this electrifying release from the Capetonian Popstar, I could relate so much to Teagan’s narration of dealing with personal issues, resulting in not wanting to go out and instead spending time by myself. Her performance on this groovy release was filled with colour and radiance, and it's definitely a new sing-along song of mine.

Thammy Ndlovu - Sixteen (26 September 2025)

Hypnotizing listeners with his sweet sounds from his entrancing voice and his guitar, Ndlovu’s performance on this euphoric project was astounding to listen to. Tracks like “SD Card” (alongside Giuliette Price) and “Games” were absolute gems to experience, and I highly recommend this project to those wanting to add more groovy sounds to their playlists.

The SN Project - Pantomine, Vol. 2 (12 September 2025)

Being the sequel to his first volume, this four-track project had The SN Project put listeners in a trance, simply by utilizing his divine singing abilities. The blend of Jazz, Soul, and R&B was sensational to experience, especially on the track “Yours”, which I heavily adored and found myself constantly returning to.

Titose - When It Comes To You (12 September 2025)

This love ballad was beautiful from the gifted songbird. This track highlighted her love and appreciation for a man in her life, stunningly describing her emotions through her alluring performance on this gentle R&B release. If you’re planning on curating one of those love playlists for a special someone in your life, I highly recommend you add this gem somewhere in there.

TJ Zulu x Sakhile - Uvalo (26 September 2025)

Blending the House genre with Soul and Pop, TJ Zulu’s latest offering proved to be a success, having both him and Sakhile flaunt their musical capabilities over the bouncy instrumental that had my head bopping alongside the reverberant beat.

Trophy - SETTLE FOR MORE (26 September 2025)

Elevating his status in the Rap game, this release from the Jozi-based poet showcased how exceptional a lyricist he can be. This album had the rapper break down moments and experiences in his life that shaped him into becoming the person he is and who he’s still trying to be through engaging storytelling over polished Hip Hop instrumentals. More eyes need to be on this star in the making.

Troy Glorified - STORIES NEVER TOLD. (15 September 2025)

Rustenberg has a serious talent in the palm of their hand. Troy’s latest release was his opportunity to fully display his hunger for making it in the Hip Hop scene, constantly entertaining me with his ability to share his tale through his captivating wordplay, especially on tracks like “THE BEAT TALK$”, “THE END (MANYELOI)”, and my favourite, “TELL ME.”.

TRP Don Gy - The Minerals U Need (2 September 2025)

Expanding on his dazzling discography, TRP dropped his heavily anticipated project, having the rapper fully displaying how proficient a lyricist he can be. What I enjoyed about this release was TRP’s versatility, hopping on an array of beats while still holding his own. And let me not forget how much of a banger the track “Tyla” is. That was definitely one of my favourite tracks to come out in September.

Tymicah - city of angels (5 September 2025)

A soft tune that resembled a lullaby, Tymicah’s “city of angels” was such an odd yet charming song to get lost in. I loved how her seductive vocal performance meandered over the eerie instrumental, creating such a gloomy atmosphere that fused heavy bass and 808s that came out of nowhere, but making this track that much more bewitching.

T!MBO x Lúa - HEARTBREAK AWAY (19 September 2025)

I’m starting to see a pattern here. Every time T!MBO hops on a track with Lúa, magic always happens. They definitely have great chemistry in the studio, and this track displayed exactly that, having the duo explore themes of love and heartbreak through their wonderful vocal performances over a peachy R&B instrumental.

WiTNE$$ - PE: BLAD. VOL1 (PRELUXE) (26 September 2025)

I just can’t get enough of WiTNE$$’s rough vocal cadence. Something about it just adds that extra bit of harshness and emotion through his raps, and this three-track EP was filled with exactly that. I especially loved the first track, “Steady, Lil Bro”, which was my introduction to the fascinating but dark sound of the talented poet.

And there you have it! Overall, I think September was a glorious month for music, and I’m so grateful for the many artists who blessed music lovers like myself with batches of new music.

I’m aware there were a whole lot more other releases that didn’t make it on our RoundUp, however, you’ll probably find them on our playlist on Spotify and Apple Music. If we missed anything, please let us know down below in the comments or via our submissions. We’re always keeping an eye and ear out for anything and anyone in the scene.

And remember to keep supporting our local acts. So much work goes into creating sounds that entertain us. The least we can do is to show them love and support!