Sizwe Sibiya
Every year artists of all genres work their socks off in the hopes that their song makes the song of the year on prominent radio station Ukhozi FM.
Although the yearly countdowns are done by most radio stations, ever since Maskandi took home the title in 2016 with Mroza’s song “Van Damme,” the Top 10 on Ukhozi FM is considered the most definitive competition.
The show airs on New Year’s Eve, and after a countdown, the song of the year is played at exactly 00:00 on 1 January.
Because of the large number of listeners from KwaZulu-Natal, where Maskandi roots are, if a Maskandi song makes it on to the top 10, that song is almost guaranteed to take home the title.
With this clearly in mind, Maskandi artist Khuzani Mpungose has scheduled his album for release on 3 December 2021. He is from Nkandla, which is also home to another well-known crooner.
Many Amapiano artists gunning for the song of the year title might take this as a slap to the face.
Already boasting with fans that filled Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban to the brim in 2019, the hit-maker stands a good chance of taking the title again – especially as his “Ijele” was 2020’s song of the year.
Additionally, Khuzani’s reality TV show is currently airing on DStv’s Mzansi Magic.
Meanwhile, Amapiano hits like “Abalele” and “Asibe Happy” – both by Kabza De Small – and Maphorisa featuring Ami Faku, also stand a good chance at scooping the title. But only if Khuzani chooses not to contest this year.
Another song to look out for is Zakes Bantwini’s “Osama” featuring Kasango, which is considered “the savior of deep house music” by fans on social media.
