SA: Thakzin named 2025 Spotify Southern Africa RADAR artist

Thakzin, known for pioneering South Africa’s vibrant electronic 3-step sound, now joins an elite global line-up of emerging talent supported by RADAR, Spotify’s flagship artist development programme for musicians on the verge of international breakthrough.

A highlight of the event was a discussion on AI’s influence in music creation. Zimbabwean technologist Babusi Nyoni addressed both excitement and apprehension around the rise of generative AI, noting: “We’re not there yet with a good full end-to-end [AI music generation].”

Multi-award-winning artist Tresor, in conversation with Spotify head of communications for Sub-Saharan Africa Michelle Atagana, emphasised the cultural and emotional significance of songwriting. Reflecting on his contribution to Drake’s ‘Honestly, ‘Nevermind’, Tresor described songwriting as “the heart of our industry”, and highlighted how global collaborations require flexibility and open-mindedness from today’s artists.

Spotify artist & label partnerships manager Jodie Tabisher outlined the platform’s ongoing efforts to champion artists across identities and genres. Key initiatives include Glow (supporting LGBTQIA+ creators), EQUAL (promoting women in music), Fresh Finds (spotlighting emerging talent), and Spotify Singles (featuring unique reinterpretations of existing tracks).

Earlier in the day, the Amplify South Africa roundtable brought together policymakers, artists, and industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening the country’s music sector. Opening remarks came from the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who declared: “South Africa’s music industry is not just entertainment; it is a national asset, a source of identity, economic growth, and global influence. Our sound travels, our stories matter, and our talents deserve the world stage. This is not charity. This is strategy. Let us amplify South Africa with purpose, with pride, and with power.”

Spotify Africa managing director Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy said: “Spotify Soundboard is about sparking the right conversations to move the industry forward and Amplify South Africa is at the heart of that.”