It feels like just yesterday that we were introduced to Sjava and Big Zulu, but these two well-established artists have been around for a while and have had fruitful careers in the music industry.

Since making his big debut on Miss Pru's 2016 hit single ‘Ameni’, Sjava went on to release his debut album Isina Muva under Ambitiouz Entertainment, making him the artist that does not sleep on releasing awards-worthy music.

The proof is in the pudding

In 2017, Sjava won three awards at the South African Music Awards, for Best Male Album and Best Kwaito/Gqom/Bubblegum Album, both for Isina Muva, as well as Best Music Video for 'Uthando'. He also went on to win two Metro FM Awards in 2018 for Best R&B/Soul/Reggae Album and Song of the Year for 'Umama'.

Inkabi nation

In came the Bergville native Big Zulu to shake the music industry in 2016 with a sound that is well-known in Mzansi but refreshing to experience from a new artist. He released his debut album Ushun Wenkabi in 2018, which spawned the platinum-selling single ‘Vuma Dlozi’.

Another chart-topper that saw Mzansi go into a frenzy is ‘Mali Eningi’ featuring Intaba Yase Dubai and the late Ricky Rick which deservedly won the Song and Collaboration of the Year at the South African Hip Hop Awards.

And then there was Inkabi Zwezwe

Let’s unpack. A newly formed duo that we didn’t know we needed came through and it’s been a solid time in the music industry. Earlier this year the pair announced they would be working on their joint album Ukhamba and now, the scene is all inkabified.

They broke the internet when their song ‘Umbayimbayi’ went platinum but it didn’t stop there. Following the success of the album, they kicked off a nationwide tour, giving their fans an opportunity to marvel at their work live on stage.

What they bring to the table is about to grace the Idols SA stage this weekend. They will be performing another single, ‘Sayona’, so come prepared.

Idols SA airs every Saturday at 18:00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161), thereafter on Mzansi Wethu (DStv channel 163) at 19:30. Buy tickets at Computicket to watch the live shows every Saturday till 4 November.

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