From Amapiano to hip hop: this weekend’s must-play tracks that own the vibe
South African DJ and producer Rixi Rita returns with her sophomore release, “Ziwaphi Magents”.
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Looking for the perfect soundtrack to your weekend?
We’ve got you covered with a fresh batch of new releases from rising stars and established icons across Africa and beyond.
From infectious Amapiano beats and nostalgic hip hop to high-energy bangers and raw lyrical storytelling, these tracks bring the heat and the vibe. Dive in and discover your next favourite song to set the mood right.
"Ziwaphi Magents" is a feel-good anthem that fuses soulful melodies with infectious rhythms, showcasing Rixi Rita’s versatility.
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“Ziwaphi Magents” by Rixi Rita, G-Master and Sisco, featuring Droliq Adiwele, Ysmack, Tumza and G Soul
Less than a year after making waves with her electrifying sets and debut single “Moments”, South African DJ and producer Rethabile Mothupi - better known as Rixi Rita - is back with her second release, “Ziwaphi Magents”.
Translating to “Where’s it going down, guys?” in Zulu, the track marks a major step in her swiftly rising career.
“This song is about friendship and warmth,” says Rita. “It’s that vibe check we all send in group chats - ‘Ziwaphi magents?’ It’s a way to pull people together and lift the mood, even on colder days.”
The song is a feel-good anthem that fuses soulful melodies with infectious rhythms, showcasing Rita’s versatility. It introduces a fresh sound she calls “Kwapi”, a vibrant blend of Kwaito and Amapiano.
"80s Baby" blends nostalgic ’80s vibes with forward-thinking ambition to reclaim African identity and reshape contemporary hip hop.
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“80s Baby” by saveHXPE featuring BabyDaiz
Lesotho-born South African rapper and producer saveHXPE returns boldly with “80s Baby”, featuring the smooth and witty BabyDaiz.
This track blends nostalgic ’80s vibes with forward-thinking ambition to reclaim African identity and reshape contemporary hip hop.
More than a song, it is a cultural statement, combining analog soul with a digital hustle and delivering swagger, satire and survival all in one package.
The beat evokes the spirit of the ’80s while reflecting SA’s township grit alongside polished vintage fashion influences.
BabyDaiz’s velvet-smooth verse adds sharp, clever bars, turning the track from a nostalgic throwback into a cultural reset.
“This isn’t nostalgia, this is a takeover,” saveHXPE declares.
The production merges lo-fi soul samples and intricate drum patterns, bridging cassette-era warmth with future party anthems.
“boffum” is a playful yet powerful anthem packed with savage punchlines and slang-heavy flows.
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“boffum” by Saweetie
Grammy-nominated rapper, style icon and global trendsetter Saweetie is back with “boffum” (pronounced “bow-fum”), a high-energy single from her upcoming EP “HELLA PRESSURE”.
Produced by Grammy-winner J White Did It, the track mixes hypnotic basslines, slick Bay Area bounce and Saweetie’s signature West Coast flair.
The song is a playful yet powerful anthem packed with savage punchlines and slang-heavy flows.
It marks a return to her hyphy roots with a modern twist, ready to dominate from clubs to cookouts. The track celebrates duality, with Saweetie embodying both strength and softness.
“New music? New era? Why not boffum?” she teases. “This song is about embracing every side of yourself, and I can’t wait for the ICY Gang to hear it.”
“Blessing and a Curse” explores the tension between chasing dreams and seeking stability, drawing from his unique experience balancing law and music.
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“Blessing and a Curse” by Dan Mwale
Zambian-born rapper and Johannesburg-based lawyer Dan Mwale offers a rare voice in SA hip hop with “Blessing and a Curse”.
The song is a raw and honest reflection on ambition, pressure and purpose.
Listeners are connecting deeply with Mwale’s vulnerable storytelling and sharp lyricism.
The track explores the tension between chasing dreams and seeking stability, drawing from his unique experience balancing law and music.
The song is shaping up to be one of the standout moments in African hip hop this year.
Driven by a soulful melody, emotive vocals and crisp, dancefloor-ready beats, “Omaspala Bomdantso” is another strong addition to Aymos’ growing discography.
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“Omaspala Bomdantso” by Aymos, Mas Musiq and Lawd Weezy
Just in time for the festive season, beloved vocalist Aymos reunites with renowned producer Mas Musiq and creative force Lawd Weezy to drop the fresh amapiano hit “Omaspala Bomdantso”.
Driven by a soulful melody, emotive vocals and crisp, dancefloor-ready beats, the track is another strong addition to Aymos’ growing discography.
Whether you’re vibing to the infectious Amapiano rhythms or soaking in lyrical hip hop storytelling, these songs demand your attention and are guaranteed to set the perfect mood.
Plug in, press play and let the music take you on a journey you won’t forget.