Apple Music has announced Johannesburg-based Amapiano singer-songwriter Babalwa M (real name Babalwa Mavuso) as the next Isgubhu cover star.
“It’s such an honor! This is a monumental moment for me and my supporters, affirming my musical journey and how far I’ve come,” she shared with Apple Music. “I’ve put in tremendous effort to reach this milestone, and I don’t take it for granted. Saying I’m excited would be an understatement—I’m thrilled to be chosen as the Isgubhu cover for August. From here, I can only continue to grow, dominate more covers, and connect with even more fans.”
Born and raised in Johannesburg, Babalwa M’s musical journey began in the church choir, where she developed a deep love for singing. After earning a journalism degree and facing difficulties finding work, she unexpectedly returned to music during South Africa’s 2020 lockdown.
While at home with her partner, DJ and producer Kelvin Momo, Babalwa M started singing on his private school Amapiano tracks. Once they shared their music on social media, the positive feedback poured in, and there was no turning back. Their collaborative EP, Bayeke (2020), paved the way for her to explore her vocal talents, quickly followed by her debut album, Aluta Continua (2021), known for its vibrant melodies and relevant themes.
Today, Babalwa M is recognized as the undisputed queen of private school Amapiano. Her latest EP, Pisces (2024), is a seven-track, groove-filled journey deeply rooted in the emotional and intuitive essence of its astrological inspiration. Collaborating once again with Kelvin Momo and renowned producer Stixx, she also enlisted the vocal talents of Nia Pearl and Bassie to create a rich tapestry of melodies and rhythms.
To celebrate her Isgubhu feature, Babalwa M has curated an exclusive playlist featuring an eclectic mix of songs close to her heart. “I’m excited to share this playlist with my fans. It’s a very personal selection, offering a glimpse into some of my favorite songs and the artists who inspire me. Some choices may be expected, while others might surprise, but I hope it will be well received and provide deeper insight into the music I love.”
Launched in early 2021, Isgubhu is the ultimate destination for African Dance and Electronic music on Apple Music, showcasing and elevating the work of African electronic DJs, producers, and creatives. The Zulu word “Isgubhu” means beat and is used to describe a banging song, paying tribute to the timeless genres and African artists who have significantly influenced the global Dance and Electronic music scene.
Isgubhu also features a variety of playlists, including “Spotlight On,” which focuses on boutique labels like Soul Candi, House Afrika, Stay True Sounds, and Uganda’s Hakuna Kulala & Nyege Nyege Tapes, as well as “Isgubhu Voices,” which highlights the best Dance and Electronic tracks with vocals.
Explore Isgubhu exclusively on Apple Music: http://apple.co/Isgubhu.
Source: DNA Brand Architect (Luyanda Mhlongo)
