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Thuli Phongolo Announces New Song ‘HAI SUKA’, Opens Up about Life in Entertainment

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Thuli Phongolo has announced the release of her new song “HAI SUKA”. Although she has been in the entertainment industry for some time, this is a huge milestone for her. Thuli has continued to show her creative skills in both acting and music.

Commenting on “HAI SUKA”, Thuli described it as a bold expression of how she feels in this moment. When translated, the title means “get away” and sends a message of freedom and independence. She said her song shows how she has been able to stand firm despite the negativity around her. She believes the song was a statement of declaration of strength and authenticity.

Thuli Phongolo : Instagram

The track contains a blend of house and Amapiano elements which are now part of South African music culture. The production of this song shows her versatility and connection with listeners.

In an interview, Thuli  opened up about the challenges she has faced in the industry and the lessons learnt. She said the public side of the career puts undue pressure on her. However, she remained resilient and focused,  which helped her succeed. She spoke about the benefits of setting boundaries and having the right people around her to support her career growth.

Read Also : The Changing Face of South African Music: What This Year’s Top 5 Reveals

Meanwhile, Thuli hopes the new song will close the gap between her acting and music career. She said working with the best producers and musicians has expanded her creative expression. She hinted that “HAI SUKA” is expected to be part of a bigger musical project she plans to release.

Thuli Phongolo : Instagram

She also touched on how being a woman in the South African music industry isn’t easy. Thuli said women aren’t often recognized unless they prove themselves. However, she said she is inspired by top female artists and DJs who have made it.

The release of “HAI SUKA” is another step in defining Thuli’s identity. As she continues on her artistic journey, fans’ expectations are likely to grow. As a multifaceted creative, Thuli is taking a path that will earn her recognition beyond South Africa.

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Masego, Bryson Tiller and DJ Mustard are set to Headline The Ascots at the 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban

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Photo: Instagram

The 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July has announced that Masego, Bryson Tiller, and DJ Mustard as headliners of a new hospitality and music experience called The Ascots. The event is set for 4 July 2026 at the Greyville Racecourse in Durban.

This is the first time these three international acts will share one stage in South Africa under a single event concept. Bryson Tiller, known for tracks like “Don’t” and “Exchange,” has a strong local fan base. Masego has performed in South Africa 4 times, including at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival.

Photo: Instagram

Read Also: Prince Kaybee Questions Music Awards Value After Zee Nxumalo’s Metro FM Snub

The Ascots is a premium hospitality and music experience inside the Durban July. The event is planned by Aline Media Group and founded by music executive Sibo Mhlungu. He says the intention of the event is more than just a show.

“The focus is on the full experience, from arrival to the final act. As someone born and bred in Durban, this is more than just an event to me, it’s a way to uplift and contribute to my hometown. For years, Durban has been treated as a secondary market for large-scale shows and has rarely been considered a destination for international artists or events of this scale,” he said.

 

Photo: Instagram

Entry level access includes racecourse entry, access to performances, and a champagne brunch. Higher tiers offer private lounges, dedicated service staff, and VIP areas. The most expensive package includes a private marquee setup with dedicated services.The music lineup includes South African acts such as Shekhinah, Elaine, and Tresor.

Durban July is centered on horse racing and fashion, but the addition of a music festival inside the event shows the focus is on creating entertainment that can attract top stars like Masego, Bryson Tiller, and DJ Mustard.

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Jorja Smith Set for SA Debut as ‘Rocking the Daisies’ 2026 Headliner

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Photo: Instagram

Jorja Smith will be the headline act for the Rocking the Daisies 2026 edition. The announcement.makes Smith the first major international name revealed for the event. This event will take place from 2nd to 4th October at Cloof Wine Estate in the Western Cape.

Despite Smith’s popularity across African audiences, the performance is her first-ever live appearance on the continent.  She started out as a songwriter in Walsall before evolving into a popular British R&B Artist. Smith has produced albums like Lost & Found (2018) and Falling or Flying (2023). In 2017, she won a BRIT award as the most promising British Artist. She got a Grammy nomination in 2019 in the Best New Artist category. The award and nomination shows how far she has come in the industry.

Photo: Instagram

Now in its 21st year, the festival has hosted popular acts in South Africa who perform well in entertainment. Previous editions Kehlani and Summer Walker. This year’s festival is expected to be more entertaining than previous ones.

Read Also: Londie London Moves Beyond the Glamour in New Reality Series “Life With Londie London”

Smith combines R&B with jazz, and has produced tracks like Blue Lights and Be Honest.  She has collaborated  with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Burna Boy, as well as South African duo Major League DJz.

Photo: Instagram

The 2026 edition comes under the theme “Welcome to the Garden,” inspired by the natural blooming of the Cape Daisy in Darling. Organisers confirm that there will be multi-stage performances and several art exhibitions.

The announcement has made Rocking the Daisies 2026 more popular. With more artists yet to be announced, Smith’s African debut will be closely watched this festival season.

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Uncle Waffles and Royal Musiq Link for “4 Da Streets” EP Drop

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Photo: Instagram

Uncle Waffles and Royal Musiq’s joint EP “4 Da Streets” is  a continuation of a working relationship that has already produced some of their most recognisable collaborations. Reports confirm that the project is scheduled for release on May 8, 2026 via Encore Recordings, signalling a structured rollout.

Photo: Instagram

The same coverage identifies Royal Musiq not just as a featured collaborator but as a partner , having contributed to tracks such as “Zenzele,” “Wadibusa,” and “Baphi.” These records are great in percussion and long drums.

The EP also follows her 2024 EP ‘4 Da Ho’s. That project combined Amapiano with Bacardi house influences and featured Royal Musiq among its contributors. This earlier body of work provides context, as “4 Da Streets” is framed as a sister project

Photo: Instagram

Read Also: Alexia Jayy Makes History as The Voice’s First Black Woman Winner in 15 Years

“4 Da Streets” shows Uncle Waffles’ rise as an international Amapiano DJ and performer. Her rise from a breakout moment in 2021 to an artist touring across the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom has been widely documented on  Africa Insider.

What distinguishes this EP is the intention to reconnect with Amapiano’s origins. The project has been described as a return to the streets. The title suggests this direction, signalling a move away from festival-oriented releases toward music meant for local dance floors.

Photo: Instagram

Uncle Waffles has been one of Amapiano’s most internationally visible DJs. However, collaborations  with Royal Musiq shows a  pattern where internationally recognised DJs work closely with top producers.

“4 Da Streets” sits between two spaces. On one side is Uncle Waffles’ international reach and growing mainstream visibility; on the other is Royal Musiq’s production-driven approach. The EP’s rollout suggests that this release will be appreciated by Amapiano’s audience.

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