South Africa is renowned for its vibrant music scene, and 2017 was no exception. This year saw a diverse range of hits, from catchy pop anthems to soulful ballads and energetic dance tracks. If you’re looking to explore the sounds of South African music in 2017, here’s a curated playlist of some of the most popular songs that will transport you to the heart of the nation’s musical landscape.
Top Chartbusters:
“Jika” by Cassper Nyovest
This song dominated the South African airwaves in 2017. It’s a high-energy track with an infectious beat, showcasing Cassper Nyovest’s talent for crafting catchy hooks and delivering powerful lyrics. The song’s music video, featuring a stunning visual spectacle, further cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon.
“Mama” by Black Coffee featuring Drake
This collaboration between South African house maestro Black Coffee and global superstar Drake was a global hit. “Mama” is a soulful and melodic track that seamlessly blends Black Coffee’s signature house sound with Drake’s signature vocals. The track topped charts worldwide, becoming a testament to the growing influence of South African music on the international stage.
“Paris” by DJ Maphorisa featuring Nasty C
This track is a fusion of Amapiano and Hip Hop, blending soulful melodies with catchy rap verses. The song’s infectious beat and intricate production make it a perfect anthem for a night out. DJ Maphorisa’s production skills, combined with Nasty C’s lyrical prowess, created a track that resonated with audiences across the country.
Underrated Gems:
“Hamba” by Tresor
Tresor, a prominent voice in South African soul music, released “Hamba” in 2017. This track is a soulful ballad that explores themes of love, loss, and resilience. Tresor’s smooth vocals and the song’s evocative lyrics make it a deeply moving and introspective listen.
“Sondela” by Kwesta featuring Cassper Nyovest
This collaboration between two of South Africa’s biggest rap stars, Kwesta and Cassper Nyovest, is a powerful and energetic track. The song’s message of perseverance and ambition resonated with fans across the country. “Sondela” is a perfect example of the raw energy and lyrical depth that characterize South African hip hop.
Beyond the Hits:
“The Greatest” by AKA
This track is a motivational anthem about chasing dreams and achieving greatness. AKA’s powerful delivery and the song’s uplifting message resonated with fans who were inspired by his message of perseverance and success.
“My Power” by Shekhinah
Shekhinah emerged as a prominent voice in South African pop music with “My Power.” This track is a catchy and empowering anthem that celebrates female strength and individuality.
“Jika” by Kwesta featuring Cassper Nyovest and Riky Rick
This track is a powerful and energetic anthem, showcasing the strength and unity of the South African hip-hop scene. The song’s message of unity and resilience resonated with fans across the country.
“The Whole World” by Sho Madjozi
Sho Madjozi emerged as a breakout star with “The Whole World.” This track is a lively and infectious tune that celebrates African culture and identity. Her unique style and energetic performance earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Exploring the Sounds of 2017:
“The music scene in South Africa in 2017 was truly dynamic,” explains Nomusa Dlamini, a renowned South African music journalist and critic. “You had a mix of established artists pushing boundaries and emerging talents capturing the hearts of the nation with their fresh sounds.”
“The year was marked by a resurgence of Amapiano, a genre that seamlessly blends soulful melodies with catchy rhythms,” adds Thabang Mokoena, a DJ and music producer based in Johannesburg.** “This sound injected new energy into the South African music scene, influencing artists across genres.”
“2017 was a year of great creativity and innovation in South African music,” concludes Naledi Khumalo, a music researcher and lecturer at the University of Cape Town.** “It was a year that cemented South Africa’s place on the global music stage, and its influence continues to grow.”
A Journey through South African Sounds:
This list is just a small glimpse into the rich tapestry of South African music in 2017. Each song represents a different flavor and genre, showcasing the diversity and creativity that define the nation’s musical landscape.
“South African music is a vibrant expression of the nation’s soul,” says Nkosi Dlamini, a singer and songwriter.** “It’s a fusion of different cultural influences, and it’s constantly evolving. If you want to understand South Africa, you need to listen to its music.”
FAQ
Q: Where can I find these songs?
A: These songs are available on various music streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
Q: Are there any other popular South African songs from 2017?
A: Yes, there are many other popular South African songs from 2017. You can explore further by searching on streaming platforms or looking for “best of 2017” playlists.
Q: What are some other notable South African music genres?
A: In addition to Amapiano, South Africa boasts a diverse range of music genres, including Kwaito, Gqom, Afropop, and Jazz.
Q: What are some of the key influences on South African music?
A: South African music is influenced by a variety of cultural traditions, including traditional African music, Western music, and the country’s own unique history and experiences.
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