SA: Khuzani’s Angidlali Nezingane is first maskandi album to top Apple Music charts

The record, released in November, features 19 songs including ‘Ronaldo’, ‘Imali Yento Yami, ‘Ebunzimeni’ and ‘Izidingo’, among others.

“I’m absolutely overwhelmed with gratitude! Seeing my album top the Apple charts is a dream come true,” Khuzani said. “We poured our hearts, souls, and countless hours into creating something special, and to have it resonate with so many people is truly humbling.”

He added: “This milestone is not just a triumph for us, but for everyone who believes in the power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift. We’re just getting started.”

The achievement marks a cultural milestone, showcasing the rising popularity of maskandi music on digital platforms. In November, maskandi artists dominated the Apple Music charts, with three albums in the Top 10, including releases by Mthandeni SK and Inkos’yamagcokama. The genre has shown significant growth year-on-year on Apple Music, with several other artists, such as Mzukulu, Limit Nala, Menzi Music, Sminofu, Saliwa, Falabo, UNjoko, and Ntencane, breaking into the South African Top 20 All Genre Album Chart.

Khuzani’s success is a testament to the genre’s growing influence and the ability of traditional South African music to connect with audiences across the country and beyond. Apple Music’s support for maskandi is further highlighted by its dedicated maskandi category page, which features expertly curated content, including the latest albums and singles, Artist Essentials playlists, catalogue playlists, and classic albums by iconic artists such as Shwi no Mtekhala, Phuzekhemisi, and Mfaz’Omnyama.