BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
MANZINI– The conversation around festival line-ups often centres on the biggest names, but at Simunye Fest, female DJs and artists are quietly bringing their own story to the stage.
From Eswatini to South Africa, Keiisy, Expo, ItsAllBlaq, NOEX and Nonto M are among the women set to feature at Simunye Fest, adding different sounds and experiences to a festival line-up built around regional talent. For some, the appearance comes after a year of important career moments.
Eswatini deep-house DJ Keiisy, for instance, made her MTN Bushfire debut earlier this year. What she expected to be a relatively quiet midday set turned into one of her memorable performances after a strong crowd gathered to watch her. She began her DJ journey in 2023 and has since performed at venues in Eswatini and across the region.
Expo, another Eswatini DJ on the Simunye Fest line-up, has been active on the local circuit since 2020. Her profile on Music In Africa lists her as a DJ and producer, while previous local event line-ups have placed her alongside other established selectors.
ItsAllBlaq is also no stranger to local festival and nightlife stages, having appeared on line-ups at events including the Eswatini International Trade Fair and other major entertainment gatherings.
Crossing the border are NOEX and Nonto M, bringing South African voices into the mix. NOEX arrives with her music, including the track “Lilizela”, while Nonto M represents Mpumalanga. Their inclusion gives the festival an interesting regional dimension, with women from different parts of the music scene sharing the same platform.
Simunye Fest will take place from October 23 to 25 at Vuvulane Sports Ground, bringing together local and regional performers. For these women, however, the weekend is more than another booking. It is another opportunity to show that the festival stage is not only a place for established male names, but also a space where female DJs and artists can shape the sound of the night.
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(Courtesy Pic)
