SA: Spotify names Lusanda as EQUAL Africa Artist for September

The EQUAL Africa programme focuses on supporting and promoting women artists across the continent by increasing their visibility and connecting their music with audiences in Africa and international markets.

Lusanda’s selection follows a series of developments in her career, including her participation in Spotify Singles, where she became the first South African woman artist to feature in the programme.

For the Spotify Singles release, Lusanda recorded a stripped-back version of Gary Jules’ interpretation of Tears for Fears’ Mad World. The arrangement places greater emphasis on her vocals and interpretation of the song.

“We’re excited to spotlight Lusanda again this September and help introduce her music to even more listeners around the world,” Spotify head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu said. “Her journey speaks to the depth of women talent emerging from the continent - a striking and individual voice that her growing fanbase loves.”

Lusanda’s relationship with Spotify began with her debut pop single, When You’re Around, which received support through Spotify’s Fresh Finds Africa programme, which promotes emerging independent artists from across Africa.

Her subsequent work has incorporated R&B, pop and contemporary influences while retaining an intimate vocal style.

The EQUAL Africa recognition comes ahead of the release of Lusanda’s forthcoming EP, By The Time I Wake Up, scheduled for 11 September 2026. The project is preceded by the title track, released as her latest single.

Reflecting on her experience with EQUAL Africa, Lusanda said the programme had contributed to several milestones in her career.

“It goes without saying that EQUAL has helped create some significant milestones for me. My first full sets on stage in Johannesburg happened thanks to the programme, and it’s also the reason I got to record a Spotify Singles! Those have been real turning points for me. Our industry needs more EQUALs that don’t just use the language of supporting us, but actually put their resources behind women artists,” she said.