By Phumzile Ndlovu
MALKERNS – Zee Nxumalo is coming home—and she’s bringing the heat.
In a moment she’s dreamt about for years, the rising Afro-pop and Amapiano sensation will make her debut at the MTN Bushfire Festival, and she’s promising nothing short of “fire.”
The 18 edition of MTN Bushfire Festival will be held on 30 May -01 June 2025 at the luscious Malandelas’ lawn in Malkerns.
“It’s going to be super special,” she said with infectious excitement, moments after lighting up the stage at the Firefly Grand Finale at House On Fire. “I’ve never had the opportunity to perform in Eswatini, so I have to make this one count.”
Zandile “Zee” Nxumalo, born on January 6, 2003, in Eswatini, grew up in Alexandra, Johannesburg, where her LiSwati roots blended beautifully with her Xhosa heritage. Her music—rhythmic, soulful, and rich in culture—is a reflection of that dual identity.
Her family in KaHlatsi is already buzzing with anticipation. “My cousins keep asking me for tickets,” she laughs. “They’re just as excited as I am.”
A former Sandown High School student and now a Law student at the University of Johannesburg, Zee’s star began to rise at 19 with her breakout single Siyajola. It wasn’t long before the world took notice. From singing at family gatherings and funerals to going pro in 2023, Zee’s journey has been one of talent, tenacity, and viral success.
A wave of social media love helped propel her into the spotlight, even landing her a tour in the United Kingdom. Now, she’s on the cusp of another career milestone—her nomination for Best Kwaito/Gqom Song at the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards, thanks to her hit track FOMO, featuring Goldmax, Dlala Thukzin, and Funky Qla.
The prestigious ceremony takes place this Saturday, May 3, at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga, celebrating 25 years of South African music excellence under the theme “Crowning Greatness.” Winners will walk away with E50 000, and the coveted Song of the Year winner will pocket a grand prize of E150 000.
Just last month, Zee wowed audiences at the Limpopo Marula Festival Reloaded, sharing the stage with powerhouses like Bishop Benjamin Dube, Zonke Dikana, Makhadzi, and King Monada.
With her hit Thula Mabota already racking up over 5 million views on YouTube, Zee Nxumalo is proving she’s more than a rising star—she’s a force of fire, ready to ignite her home stage.
