SA: Skhindi inks Sony Music Africa deal

This milestone marks a significant step in Skhindi’s musical career and follows the release of his single ‘Emzini Wezinsizwa’ featuring Dando. The record is available for streaming and download on major digital platforms.

“Signing to Sony Entertainment Africa feels as if it’s been a lifelong goal of mine to reach this point,” Skhindi said. “I’m honoured and just want to prove my worth.”

Sony Music Entertainment Africa senior A&R manager Gavin Gutu said: “The Skhindi signing was a no-brainer when his upcoming single popped up on our watchlist. The use of the ‘Emzini Wezinsizwa’ sample was an office favourite, and after meeting him, we knew we had a star on our hands. The rapping Taxi Driver is about to take over.”

Skhindi’s latest offering, ‘Emzini Wezinsizwa’, was taken from popular South African sitcom Emzini Wezinsizwa’s theme track by the same name. This new remake has quickly gained traction on social media, captivating audiences with both Skhindi and Dando’s unique rap style and infectious beat.

“The song is about how we are united and wherever we go, they shall respect us,” Skhindi said. “Since I started making music, we’ve been working together, so it is always comfortable to work with him [Dando].”

Skhindi’s rap style is a distinctive fusion of his Zulu heritage and trap, which he aptly calls ‘IsiZulu Saphesheya’. This innovative approach combines simplified Zulu lyrics with subtle hints of English, creating a unique sound that resonates with a wide range of listeners. By blending his native language with modern trap beats, Skhindi makes his music both accessible and relatable to a diverse audience, while still staying true to his cultural roots.

“It's important to me that everyone can understand what is being said, regardless of whether they understand vernacular or not,” he said.

Skhindi, also known as The Rapping Taxi Driver, is a talented artist from Kwamashu in KwaZulu-Natal who shot to success with his single ‘Etaxini’ featuring Sjava. His innovative approach to music and ability to connect with listeners through his relatable lyrics and unique sound has set him apart as a rising star in the South African hip hop community.