South African Music

Explore SA music genres and musicians

South African Music

South Africa has incredibly diverse music. Traditional music includes Zulu isicathamiya, Xhosa umngqokolo (overtone singing) and Venda tshikona. Modern SA genres include jazz, kwaito, amapiano, gospel and hip-hop. Music brings people together and tells our stories.

Example

SA Music Genres

• Isicathamiya: a cappella harmonies (Ladysmith Black Mambazo) • Mbaqanga: 'township jive' guitar music • Kwaito: SA house music with hip-hop influence • Amapiano: modern SA electronic genre (log drums, piano) • Gospel: Joyous Celebration, Rebecca Malope • Jazz: Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Abdullah Ibrahim

Note

Remember

South African music reflects our history — struggle songs united people against apartheid, gospel expresses faith, and amapiano shows our modern creativity. Miriam Makeba (Mama Africa) took SA music to the world. Music is a powerful tool for expression and unity.

Key Vocabulary

GenreA category or style of music (jazz, gospel, amapiano)

A cappellaSinging without any musical instruments

HarmonyDifferent notes sung or played together that sound good

AmapianoA modern SA music genre with piano and log drum sounds

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