Celebrating Women’s Voices in South African Music: Spotify Honors Female Artists in 2024
In celebration of Women’s Day and Month in South Africa, Spotify is shining a spotlight on the remarkable female artists who have made waves in the music industry with their new album releases in 2024. These talented women are not only reshaping the local music scene but also establishing themselves as significant contributors to the global music landscape.
Women’s Day, commemorated on August 9th, marks the historic march of approximately 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, protesting against oppressive laws that restricted the movement of Black South Africans. This day serves as a reminder to honor the achievements of South African women while reflecting on the ongoing challenges they face, all while advocating for gender equality.
As part of its commitment to promoting gender equality and amplifying the voices of female musicians, Spotify highlights some of South Africa’s most exceptional and emerging female artists. Their music is breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of female creators. Spotify’s initiatives, such as the EQUAL program, underscore its dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive in the music industry. The Women’s Day celebration offers an important opportunity to acknowledge these artists and their contributions.
Here are some of the most streamed albums by South African female artists from January to July 2024:
Globally
- TYLA – Tyla
- Unusual – Xolly Mncwango
- Kwakhanya – Azana
- Sankofa – Thandiswa
- nomthandazo – Zoë Modiga
- Rainbow – Lady Zamar
- Sarang / 사랑 – Sio
- Synthetic Hearts Part II – Msaki
- Difela, Vol. 2 – Dr Winnie Mashaba
In South Africa
- TYLA – Tyla
- Unusual – Xolly Mncwango
- Kwakhanya – Azana
- Sankofa – Thandiswa
- nomthandazo – Zoë Modiga
- Rainbow – Lady Zamar
- Synthetic Hearts Part II – Msaki
- Difela, Vol. 2 – Dr Winnie Mashaba
- Sarang / 사랑 – Sio
- Thobekile – Thobekile
These remarkable albums have captured the attention of listeners both locally and globally, featuring prominently in over 4 million user-generated playlists on Spotify. The majority of streams for these albums come from Gen Z listeners aged 18 to 24, who account for 41% of streams in South Africa and 39% globally. Notably, female listeners are also leading the charge, representing 57% of streams in South Africa and 64% globally.
The international reach of South African female artists is evident, with the top countries streaming their music including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines. Additionally, cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban are among the top cities enjoying these talented artists’ work.
Artists such as Tyla, Cordelia, Sho Madjozi, Kanyi Mavi, and Moonchild Sanelly are not only celebrated within South Africa but are also making significant impacts on the global music stage.
As we celebrate Women’s Day in South Africa, let us recognize the talent, creativity, and perseverance of these inspiring female musicians. Their stories and achievements reflect the essence of Women’s Day—a celebration of strength, resilience, and progress in the pursuit of equality in the music industry and beyond.
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