#ARMC23: South African Music Queens of the ’90s & 2000s
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Join me as we take a thrilling ride into yesteryears, tracing the indelible footprints left by five phenomenal queens who shaped the melody of the South African music scene in the 90s and 2000s. While attending this year’s Africa Rising Music Conference I had the extraordinary privilege of partaking in a dialogue that echoed through time, aptly christened, ‘Queens of the ’90s & 2000s – History of the South African Landscape by Legends.’
Imagine a stage lit with the sparkle of five powerful women: Zanele Nestum Nyakale, Penny Lebyane, Winnie Khumalo, Tamara Dey, and Zandi Nhlapo, moderated by the brilliant Lulama Mali, the deputy chair of Women In Music SA. This was not just a panel discussion; it was a symphony of voices that echoed resilience, broke barriers, and paved ways in a male-dominated industry.
First up, Zanele Nestum Nyakale, a singer whose vocal prowess resonates with the spirit of South Africa. Her tale was one of unwavering determination, of being told ‘no’ countless times, yet still forging ahead, fuelled by her passion for music.
Then, we have Penny Lebyane, a multi-personality whose charisma captivated the audience from the get-go. Her journey, strewn with numerous roles in the entertainment industry, demonstrated the versatility of a woman in command of her destiny.
In the spotlight next was Winnie Khumalo, a singer-songwriter whose soulful tunes became the soundtrack to the South African life in the 90’s and 2000’s. Winnie’s raw honesty about the struggles of succeeding in an industry tailored for men was a humbling reminder of the strength these women embody.
Tamara Dey, a celebrated artist, emphasised the importance of self-expression through her anecdotal journey. She exemplified how the creative spirit could triumph over societal expectations, particularly in a conservative and patriarchal landscape.
Last but not least, was Zandi Nhlapo, a renowned TV presenter and actress. Her reflections on the entertainment industry were insightful, offering a glimpse into the world behind the glitz and glamour, a world that requires grit and determination.
Lulama Mali, our panel moderator and deputy chair of Women In Music SA, steered the conversation with grace and wisdom, ensuring every voice was heard, every story told. She was the embodiment of empowerment, encouraging dialogue about social and political issues that still shape the industry today.
These women, these legends, did not merely succeed; they soared, transforming the landscape of the South African music industry. They rose above adversity, using their talents to address social and political issues, to provide a soundtrack to a changing nation, and to empower the generations of women who would follow in their footsteps.
However, their stories were not just about success, but also about the work still needed. The struggle for female artists is far from over, with ongoing battles for equality, representation, and respect. But if there’s anything these powerful queens have shown us, it’s that they are more than ready for the fight.
And so, as we pay tribute to these legends, we are reminded of their enduring influence and the power of their music that continues to echo through the hearts of South Africans. And so we raise a toast to Zanele, Penny, Winnie, Tamara, and Zandi – the true queens of the South African music scene in the ’90s and 2000s – and anticipate the melodies yet to come.
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