For the month of February, we’ve collected some heaters from Lesotho, South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Dig in and enjoy the delectable flavors of some of the best audio treats to emerge from Southern Africa.

Cassper Nyovest - “Kusho Bani” [South Africa]

Since his mainstream debut with “Gusheshe” about 11 years ago, Cassper Nyovest has divided public opinion. In between, he has filled stadiums,launched a successful liquor brand andfound Christ. “Kusho Bani marks his return to form and claps back at naysayers who doubt his hit-making ability.

Umntungwambulazi - “Sorry Mama” (feat. Sjava) [South Africa]

On “Sorry Mama,” Umntungwambulazi links up withSjava to deliver a heartfelt apology to their mothers for the life-threatening dangers they encounter while on the hustle. The Herc Cut The Lights-produced beat allows both artists to paint vivid pictures of incidents, such as getting robbed, while trying to earn a living in the City of Gold.

Winky D - “Siya” [Zimbabwe]

There’s no denying thatWinky D is the undisputed godfather of Zimbabwean dancehall. The artist has been dishing out hits since the early 2000s and has had his fair share of challenges. On “Siya,” the acclaimed artist delivers a message of self-reliance and self-belief. It comes amidst another scandal in Zimbabwe concerningpublic figures and artists who have received gifts from the controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo. “Siya” is taken from Winky D’s latest release, Phabo EP.

Gabopatwe & Mpho Sebina - “Lerato” [Botswana]

Delivered as a duet between Botswana artists Mpho Sebina and Gabopatwe, “Lerato” is the closest sonic embodiment of what joy sounds like. It’s a moody love song that exhibits the might of its writer’s pen, an expression of longing, desire and submission when one can no longer resist the force of love. Gabopatwe’s nimble fingers stretch the breadth of the piano as he provides the perfect instrumental accompaniment to Sebina’s sharp pen and dreamy vocals. This one is for all the lovers worldwide.

Ntate Stunna - “After School”  [South Africa]

Over the past month, rumors regarding a beef between Ntate Stunna andSannere have been brewing in Lesotho music circles. Ntate Stunna adds fuel to that fire on “After School” as he demands an apology to unnamed individuals who’ve been sneak-dissing him. While Sannere hasoutright denied the existence of any friction, Stunna’s reference to “Ha E Bohla,” a song his rumored opponent features on, does little to help.

Nanette - “Bad” [South Africa]

South African R&B sensation Nanette continues to leave her imprint on the music scene with “Bad,” a Michael Jackson-inspired moody cut that portrays the life of a dangerously captivating woman who exudes confidence, as well as a bit of chaos. Nanette’s pen shines throughout the song; “bad, bad, bad, bad/ Michael bad, and she knows it / yeah, she shows it,” she sings. “Bad” proves that she shouldn’t get left out when the country’s best come into discussion.

Jah Prayzah - “Mandionei” [Zimbabwe]

Another leading figure in Zimbabwean dancehall is Jah Prayzah, known as Musoja (soldier) to his fans due to his tendency to wear military regalia. “Madionei” is a relaxed dancehall song about getting criticized by people who have lost their way. Some have suggested that the song is a lyrical jab at Winky D, but none of the artists have come out to squash the rumors.

Tresor & Sofiya Nzau - “Wale Wale” [South Africa/Kenya]

Tresor breaks his three-year silence with “Wale Wale,” a splendid, Afro-inclined stadium-sized banger featuring East Africa’s Sofiya Nzau, who brings an undeniable charm to the entire affair. It’s another addition to the DRC-born artist who has come a long way since his years as a security guard, an earworm that won’t leave you alone. Tresor is a musician’s musician.

Sjava - “Uyena” [South Africa]

Sjava’s latest EP, Inkanyezi, is an unparalleled achievement in South African music. It’s a collection of entirely new songs that had never been performed before the December 2024 show when they were recorded. However, one can’t tell from listening alone that Sjava’s ability to control an audience deserves to be studied. On “Uyena,” the artist takes his fans on a gospel-flavoured roundabout. Read our feature onSjava and the Art of Intimate Live Performances.