Heritage Day isn’t just another day off. It’s when Mzansi turns the volume up on the sounds that shape who we are. This year, Spotify is celebrating homegrown music with a collection of playlists that honour the rhythms, stories, and languages at the heart of South Africa’s heritage.
Leading the way is Bhinca Nation, channeling the spirit of traditional Zulu music with tracks like “Inja Nodogo” by Khuzani and “Angsakhoni” by Mduduzi Ncube. Khuphuka!, refreshed with artwork inspired by classic Maskandi album sleeves, salutes the enduring soul of isiZulu folk through songs such as “Izibe” by uDulasi Magubane and “BayangiSabwela” by Ntencane.
Love takes centre stage on Zulu Love Letter, a tapestry of ballads like “Wenhliziyo Yami” by Zwide and “Paris” by Mthandeni SK that echo across generations. Afrikaans music shines too. Afrikaanse Hits lines up heartfelt treffers like “Die Mooi In Jou” by Demi Lee Moore and “Bederf Jouself” by Dassie, while Nuwe Afrikaans spotlights the new wave with “Alle Eer” by Early B and “Kom Klop Weer” by EDEN.
From Limpopo, Limpopo Way brings the province’s signature groove with “Di Chopper” by Shandesh and “Baloi” by Makhadzi. Mzansi Jazz Archive digs deep into a proud legacy, from Hugh Masekela’s “Khauleza” to Judith Sephuma’s “A Cry, A Smile, A Dance.”
New this year is Lehlaso, a Sesotho-focused playlist uplifting the sounds of Basotho culture. Expect moving selections like the late Malome Vector’s “Lerato” and Ntate Stunna’s “Fire,” ensuring Sesotho takes its rightful place in the Heritage Day story.
“These playlists are more than collections of songs. They’re reflections of who we are as South Africans,” says Athandiwe Ntshangase, Music Editor at Spotify Sub-Saharan Africa. “From the rural sounds of Maskandi to the innovative jazz fusions of our cities, each playlist is a tribute to the diversity of voices that make up our nation’s soundtrack.”
Heritage Day reminds us that umculo, music, is a language we all understand. Whether it’s the celebratory chants of Maskandi, the smooth sway of jazz, or a heartfelt Afrikaanse ballade, press play on Spotify and reconnect with your roots.
