Summer jams you can't ignore: are these the viral tracks of the season?

From TikTok hits to streaming sensations, these tracks are dominating feeds and playlists everywhere. 

Could they be the soundtrack to your summer? We break down the songs that are taking over and why you need them on repeat.

King Nuba, featuring 2Short - “Izindlu Zodaka”

“Izindlu Zodaka” has captured attention with its infectious rhythms and memorable hooks.

The track fuses traditional Maskandi elements with a contemporary Afrobeat style, creating a sound that is loved by many. Its popularity on social media has fueled its rapid rise, with fans sharing clips and dance routines across platforms.

The title, which translates to “mud houses” in English, evokes themes of heritage, authenticity and the unfiltered essence of rural life.  

Kabza De Small and Kelvin Momo, featuring Thatohatsi - “Iphupho”

“Iphupho” is part of Kabza De Small's latest album “Bab'Motha”, which highlights his versatility and ongoing influence in the Amapiano scene. The title, meaning “Dream”, reflects the song’s melodic and intimate nature.

The production is rich, featuring gentle piano chords, ambient synths and steady percussion that create a serene soundscape mirroring the theme.

Thatohatsi’s vocals float effortlessly over the music, expressing love, longing and visions of something better - a romantic dream that feels just out of reach yet deeply real. The song has recently surpassed two million streams on Spotify.  

Shallipopi - “Laho”

“Laho” is a breakout single by Nigerian artist Shallipopi. The track combines Afrobeats rhythms with elements of street pop and trap, showcasing Shallipopi's distinctive style.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of wealth, fame and ambition, with Shallipopi adopting the persona of the "Minister of Enjoyment”. The track gained widespread attention after a preview was shared on Shallipopi's social media accounts earlier this year.

The lyrics are performed in a mix of English and Bini, his native language, which adds depth and authenticity to the song. A remix featuring Burna Boy has also been released, further expanding its reach.  

MaWhoo, GL_Ceejay and Thukuthela, featuring Jazzworx - “Bengicela”

“Bengicela” has captured widespread attention, reaching number one on Apple Music's all-genre charts and trending on YouTube, Spotify and Shazam.

The title, which translates to “I’m pleading” in isiZulu, reflects the song’s themes of longing and emotional vulnerability. MaWhoo’s vocals anchor the track, delivering a heartfelt plea for hope and guidance.

GL_Ceejay and Thukuthela add melodic verses, while Jazzworx’s production provides a captivating three-step rhythm that perfectly complements the emotive storytelling.

The song is making waves not only online but also at party venues across the country.

Khadeair, Peekay Mzee and Kaytah - “Magumba”

The song's title translates to “money” in Sesotho, reflecting its themes of wealth and success.

The track delivers a message of motivation and the pursuit of financial freedom through one’s passion. From toddlers to elders, everyone is enjoying this hit, which has become a cultural phenomenon.

Sminofu, featuring  Zee Nxumalo - “Sajola Kamnandi”

This is a smooth, flirtatious track that celebrates the sweetness of young love.

The title roughly translates to “We are dating nicely”, and that very feeling of joy, intimacy and romantic chemistry flows through every beat.

The song is perfect for couples, lovers or anyone who wants to experience the thrill of mutual affection.

DJ Jaivane, Smaki 08 and Wesley Keys, featuring De Rose - “Lutho”

“Lutho” is a captivating Amapiano track. De Rose’s soulful vocals, combined with the artists’ smooth log drum rhythms and melodic instrumentation, create a song worth singing along to this summer.

It explores themes of love, with a woman asking her partner to return when he is done playing games with the “ama-2k” era. She also admits that she is scared to commit.

The song’s success is clear, having been featured in popular playlists such as Apple Music’s Amapiano Lifestyle and Mzansi Hits, and it continues to trend on platforms like Shazam.

Summer listening is often defined by songs that stick in your mind and appear across multiple platforms. These tracks have done exactly that, making them potential candidates for the soundtrack of the season.

Whether you encounter them on TikTok, Instagram, in a playlist or on the radio, they are songs that are meant to be heard repeatedly.