Since it was released earlier this year, ‘Molo’ has been an unqualified success.
The song peaked at number 1 on Ukhozi FM, the biggest radio station in Africa, as well as Metro FM, the biggest urban radio station in SA. It’s been in the Apple Music Top 100 since its release in March and has over 2.5 million views on YouTube.
On Sunday he’ll perform this, along with ‘uKiss’ from his ‘Imvula Mlomo’ album released at the end of July. That release has been described as “music for the people, reflecting contemporary South Africa, proud and unapologetic about his roots, whilst maintaining a thoughtful finger on the pulse of urban trends. It is a relatable mix of modern Afro-pop, spiritual gospel with a down to earth dose of traditional folk songs and edgy swerves into hip-hop.”
Qwana is a rapper, producer, arranger, and designer who has managed to capture the hearts of music lovers for his unique blend of maskandi, mbaqanga, Arna Zion, hip-hop, and R&B. He has worked with the likes of Sho Madjozi, Emtee, Stilo Magolide, DJ Tira, Major League and Makwa Beats.
The singer hails from Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal, and his solo debuts arrived in 2019 after featuring on several hit songs, including 2018’s ‘Ngaqonywa’ featuring DJ Tira and ‘Uhamba Nobani’ with Sho Madjozi.
Earlier this month he told Okayafrica about his sound, “People generally regard it as Afro-pop, but, for me, it is not necessarily that. If anything, we make ‘umculo wases'bayeni’ or ‘amagwijo’ (folk music); music that is sung during various traditional celebrations, ceremonies, weddings etc.”
“The only exception is that we write and compose our own songs, and we sing on top of modern beats due to our various influences.”
We can’t wait to see what colours he brings to the Idols SA stage on Sunday!
Season 16 of Idols SA broadcasts on Sundays at 17:00 on Mzansi Magic Channel 161. Get exclusive updates and a behind the scenes look at all the action right here on our site. Don't forget to join the conversation by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #IdolsSA.