South Africans and the world woke up to the news that Jerusalema, the global hit by Master KG featuring Nomcebo Zikode, reached the milestone 100 million views mark on YouTube last night.
This comes a month after the triumphant and much celebrated 50 million views mark that put Master KG and Nomcebo on the path to global domination.
It is also noteworthy that the song was recorded on 29 August 2019 and almost to the day, a year later, it sits as the most watched music video by a Black South African artist.
Master KG, the Bolobedu house maestro, is riding the crest of a wave after Jerusalema went viral and sparked a dance challenge that inspired the world gripped by the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. Interest was further spiked with the release of Jerusalema Remix featuring Nigerian superstar Burna Boy. And now from Italy to France, the US and Brazil; to India and China as well as the rest of the African continent, different versions and dance challenges have sprang up. They range from the soothing and tender acoustic to banging upbeat proving the creative genius and versatility of Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode.
Master KG welcomed the news: ‘This is just amazing. I’m thrilled to see Jerusalema breaking records and inspiring people all over the world. It’s also humbling to see the speed at which it travels. When we reached the 50 million views last month nobody would have predicted that in four weeks it would have doubled. This is testament that when Jesus says yes, nobody can say no. This has gone beyond us and it’s marvellous to watch.’
Nomcebo commented: ‘None of this would have been possible without the support of people touched by Jerusalema all over the world. It is all thanks to them for responding so well to a song that gives them hope at a time of despair. It is also through the will of God that Jerusalema has travelled so much and done so well. I am honoured to have been a part of this incredible journey.’
Lionel Jamela of OpenMic Productions celebrated: ‘This is a significant moment for our industry in South Africa. It comes at a time when the world embraces the move towards digital and it matters that we also stake our claim. We are humbled by the success of Jerusalema and are delighted for Master KG and Nomcebo. I wish this major feat stands as evidence to all Black children that nothing is impossible if you have the talent and are willing to work hard at it. A big congratulations to Master KG and Nomcebo, may they keep flying the South African flag high, we as their recording company will be there to cheer them on.’
Master KG and Nomcebo have been honoured with the Cultural Diplomacy ambassadorship roles by the Minister Nathi Mthethwa of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
