DistroKid makes history by recognising maskandi, xigaza as official genres

This recognition allows South African artists to categorise their work under authentic traditional labels rather than generic categories, increasing visibility and discoverability worldwide.

“The recognition of maskandi and xigaza as official genres on DistroKid is more than just a technical update, it is a cultural milestone,” DistroKid market growth consultant for South Africa Unathi Memela said. “These genres are pillars of South Africa’s musical identity, carrying the stories, traditions, and legacies of generations. By giving them rightful visibility on a global distribution platform, we are ensuring that artists working in these styles are not only celebrated at home but also discoverable worldwide.”

The inclusion of these genres has implications beyond visibility. It enhances royalty tracking for South Africa’s collection management societies, including SAMRO, SAMPRA, and CAPASSO, facilitating more accurate compensation for traditional musicians. The milestone also supports the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA) in its ongoing efforts to promote local talent and diversify the country’s music exports.

Maskandi and xigaza, regarded as cultural archives, embody centuries of storytelling, identity, and community expression. By integrating them into DistroKid’s global platform, the company aims to bridge heritage and innovation, allowing younger generations to engage with South Africa’s musical traditions in a modern context.

“This move strengthens the bridge between tradition and innovation, empowering creators to preserve heritage while reaching new audiences. It is a powerful step toward honouring South Africa’s diverse music culture and securing its place in the global digital era,” Memela added.

DistroKid, based in New York, is a leading digital distribution service that enables artists worldwide to share music across major streaming platforms. Its recognition of maskandi and xigaza underscores a growing trend of integrating indigenous music into the global digital ecosystem, positioning South Africa’s traditional sounds alongside international genres.