Local Entertainment 

#YearOnTikTok celebrates creativity, trends, creators, movements and moments, powered by the South African community

Entertainment, Local Entertainment  / December 7, 2022

• TikTok takes a retrospective look at the hottest moments and trends on the platform with

• Eight awards across Sub-Saharan Africa will be awarded through TikTok’s inaugural

• #TopCreator2022 awards voting opens from 16 December 2022.

07 December 2022: The end of the year is fast approaching, and for community-driven entertainment destination, TikTok, the moment calls for a rewind ‒ a retrospective look at the hottest moments and trends on the platform with #YearOnTikTok. The platform entered 2022 on a high note, having reached the 1-billion-user benchmark during the latter part of 2021. From the rise in subcultures like #BookTok to the introduction of the first-ever public-voted ‘TikTok Viral Song of the Year’ award in partnership with the South African Music Awards, 2022 was a “year of impact.”

These were the words of Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok’s Head of Content Programming SubSaharan Africa, who commented that: “what happens on TikTok doesn’t stay on TikTok ‒ whether you’re building a brand, showcasing talent or using the platform as a vehicle for selfexpression, we’ve seen creators realising tangible, real-world benefits of creating content on the platform.”

Sidwaba says that this was true in instances where we saw creators addressing pivotal, global issues such as climate change and interacting with communities in a way that is authentic, raw and creative. But, we also saw this play out on the lighter side of things, with TikTok being used as an entertainment destination for heart-warming humour.

“In the examples of the top-performing content, this year lies a clear illustration of the fact that TikTok is for everyone, everywhere. This is something that we are proud of and will take into the new year as we continue to grow and develop as a platform for discovery, creativity and community.”

TikTok Chief Operating Officer, Vanessa Pappas said: “We’re honoured to celebrate our global community who shaped this year’s trends, shared new ideas, learned from one another, and turned their passions into careers and livelihoods throughout 2022. It’s been truly inspiring to see over a billion people around the world show their creativity and come together to experience joy and find a sense of belonging on TikTok”.

Now for the exciting stuff

Celebrating #YearOnTikTok, TikTok South Africa puts the spotlight on the hottest, most happening TikTok trends of the past year. In no particular order, they are:

Breakthrough Stars: 2022’s groundbreaking creators, celebrities and artists

The year had its fair share of emerging content creators who were destined for superstardom. Amongst these were talented vocalists, dancers and other creators who used the platform to showcase their unique talents. We were both humbled and honoured to see such a rich and diverse mix of talent coming through on the platform this year and really making it big. These were some of South Africa’s favourites:

  1. @s.eemah_ – always telling it like it is using humour
  2. @deemrsbee – getting down with Mrs Bee
  3. @moghelingz – getting down with talented Moghelingz
  4. @itskamo_ – a dance trio that took over our FYPs with fresh moves to trending sounds. They
    grew hundreds of thousands of followers this year
  5. @mandznothot – emerging star Mandisa Jakavula, jumps on a trending sound
  6. @miss_hilary – celebrating the traditional Xibelani with Miss Hilary
  7. @robot_boii_rsa – Robot Boii going “Roboto” on Mzansi

FYFaves: The most popular videos of 2022
TikTok’s ‘For You’ feed provides users with a curated offering of content that is tailored to their unique browsing preferences. Every ‘For You’ feed is different, ensuring that TikTok users are served the content they want to see, when they want to see it. Check out the videos that made this year’s leading list on ‘For You’ feeds across South Africa:

  1. @alphi_sipho – konkaring at KONA with Mam’Sbosh
  2. @bafanamthembu3 – local fashion trendsetter. Bhinca Cool
  3. @godsbutler – Vlogger taking us through his day in a South African township
  4. @thembiseete1– legendary songstress, actress and Idols South Africa judge, Thembi Seete
    reveals one of her Idols’ Looks and details from behind-the-scenes
  5. @bontle_ba_afrika – one of SA’s top dancers and choreographers dancing to Big Flexa – Costa
    Titch
  6. @oskidoibelieve – producer and award-winning musician who has taken over South African
    TikTok with Sis Judy
  7. @primo9teen – Primo adds a humorous twist to a global music trend

The Hitmakers South Africa: Most viewed artists on TikTok
From homemade beats to golden oldies and musical classics, TikTok is the platform to be on if
you want to keep abreast of the biggest movements on the music scene. The following were the
artists that made it big on TikTok this year:

  1. Pabi Cooper
  2. Makhadzi
  3. Mr Jazziq
  4. Uncle Waffles
  5. EBucs
  6. Quality Biyela
  7. Owami Mafokate
  8. Lloyiso
  9. Oskido
  10. Vusi Nova

The Playlist: The songs that soundtracked 2022
Music remained the mainstay of TikTok in 2022, with breakthrough artists using the platform to find their voice and the world’s most renowned singers, producers and musical artists using the platform to showcase their latest and greatest. The following is a list of the music that trended on TikTok among South African audiences:

  1. Bafo (feat. Sizwe Alakine, K-Zaka, Djy Ma’Ten, Djy Zan SA, Djy Biza & M.J) by Mr.JazziQ
  2. SETE (feat. Young Stunna & Blxckie) by K.O
  3. Sofa Silahlane by Wanitwa Mos & Master KG & Lowsheen
  4. uMlando (feat. Sir Trill, Sino Msolo, Lady Du, Young Stunna and Slade) by 9umba & TOSS &
    Mdoovar
  5. Trigger by Dj Karri
  6. Ketseng by Felo Le Tee & DBN Gogo & MJ
  7. Buga (Lo Lo Lo) by Kizz Daniel & Tekno
  8. Manca by Felo Le Tee & Toss
  9. Hamba Wena by Deep London & Boohle
  10. Salary Salary by Robot Boii & Mellow & Sleazy & Soul Revolver

Only on TikTok: Trends powered by creative effects, sounds and other product features
TikTok knows no limits when it comes to creativity, and its communities took theirs to new heights this year, powered by the tools and features that are unique to the platform. These were the videos that featured elements that are unique to TikTok:

  1. @stunningmaze – the use of make-up effect and transition to reveal a new red carpet outfit
  2. @chila_and_matevhu – the Unhappy Effect
  3. @jessicamashaba20 – the Thriller Effect
  4. @kayurinthirushanvg – SoftieCam By huseyincanxs
  5. @laurenandlaratiktok – Freeze Frame Effect
  6. @da_future7 – Double Layers Effect

Big Little Communities: Popular subcultures and niche communities
One of the things that our users have come to know and love about TikTok is the enabling environment it provides for the emergence of niche communities and subcultures. These were some of the communities that captured the imagination of South Africans this year:

  1. @kimpinkillustration – children’s books illustrator, Kimpink, working on her ameloen Super
    hero character #BookTok
  2. @.lachief – tech and #Appreviews
  3. @exclusivebooks – partner, Exclusive Books took on the #BookTok challenge

TikTok Taught Me: Lessons and life hacks powered by TikTok trends and features
2022 saw TikTok being used to entertain and inspire, but also to inform. Its immense value as an educational platform was clear in the overwhelming popularity of videos that provided users with quick and easy life hacks and bite-sized lessons. These were some of the most popular videos in this category:

  1. @triciampisi – learning the difference between DRC and Congo Brazzaville
  2. @doctor.siya – World Famous Doctor teaches about eye health myths
  3. @missangler – amazing Biology teacher, MissAngler, teaches how to study exam questions
  4. @connie_ferguson – iconic actress, Connie Furguson teaches dance moves to one lege
  5. @coachela.randy – learning the basics of skincare

Eats on Repeat: #FoodTok trends and other favourites
On TikTok, nothing captures the hearts and minds of South Africans more than food-related content, with pro chefs, amateur gastronomists and all-round foodies taking to the platform to showcase their culinary creations. These were the recipes and food hacks that made it to the top of menu:

  1. @yo.meal – student Chef Keso makes a South African corn dog
  2. @yungearn – food blogger vists most popular braai + Zulu cultural hub – Kwa Mai Mai
  3. @mfaniruthymiti – Chef creator teaches how to make wings
  4. @natheerah_solomon – a simple 4-ingredient dessert
  5. @4king_fantasties – self-taught chef takes a spin at 2min noodles with an Afrikaans narration

Best programmed TikTok LIVE
TikTok LIVE dominated the scene with some great LIVE music performances, social change discussions and social events.

  1. @thesamas_ – the 28th South African Music Awards and Red Carpet
  2. @lloyiso – #Love – Valentines Day Live
  3. @themktshow – the MKT Show African Cup of Nations Watchalongs
  4. @azz_iad & @mentallyawareng – Mental Health Awareness Campaign
  5. @tiktok.southafrica – Easter Music Live with Dr Rebecca Malope –
  6. @mowalolatv – Mowalola SS23 “Burglar Wear” show

Creator of the Year award: This is your chance to vote
Last but not least, for the first time ever, TikTok will be awarding content creators across SubSaharan Africa through their inaugural TikTok #TopCreator2022 awards. For this momentous celebration, the platform is calling on all TikTok users throughout the region to vote for their favourite content creator who will stand a chance to be crowned TikTok #TopCreator2022 or TopCreator2022 runner up for South Africa. Furthermore, the nominated creators will battle it out to earn the crown Creator of the Year title for the whole Sub-Saharan African region.

Public voting will open on TikTok from midnight on 16 December until 23:59 on 23 December. Nominees will be announced on the TikTok Africa newsroom.

Sidwaba concludes: “as a platform, we are going into 2023 strong, with a solid head start on the hottest topics and trends that are capturing the attention of the world and the country at large. We’re excited to find out what lies ahead and remain committed to developing TikTok in a way that provides a safe and secure online environment for self-expression, fun and of course, fame. Here’s to another year of remarkable content.”

Join the #YearOnTikTok Retrospective LIVE

Join popular creators @Azz_iad (Kenya), @I_am_tjan (Nigeria) and @Sphokuhle_n (South Africa) on TikTok Live on the 23rd of December 2022 (6 pm WAT /7 pm CAT / 8pm EAT). The funfilled chat hosted on the @TikTok.Africa account will take us back in time to all the creative, entertaining, inspiring, musical, and heartfelt moments that were shared on TikTok this year – looking at inspiring creativity and bringing joy this festive season.

Image: Instagram

Zikhona Sodlaka’s stellar performance on Showmax’s The Wife

Entertainment, Fused, Local Entertainment , Stories of South Africa, Uncategorized / December 7, 2022

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

If you’re a fan of The Wife on Showmax, or if you’ve seen even one episode of the South African telenovela drama locally inspired by author, Dudu Busani-Dube’s beloved novels, you’ll agree that actress, Zikhona Sodlaka delivered a stellar performance from the beginning until her very last (and very emotional) scene.

The Wife is centered around the Zulu brothers and their love interests – Mandisa was the wife of the second eldest brother, Nqoba Zulu played by Abdul Khoza.

Her very colorful wigs, tight clothing with very loud prints, and heavy makeup are quite different from Zikhona’s more natural look and bald hairstyle. But when Zikhona stepped into Mandisa’s shoes, she delivered a convincing performance.

Since The Wife made its debut, Zikhona has been celebrated by viewers and has even earned herself nominations for Best Female Actor at the 2022 DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards and Best Supporting Actor at the 2022 South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas).

Mandisa was the type of character you hate to love because if she wasn’t being funny (and boy was she hilarious!), she would do very questionable things like burning millions of rands that were meant to help a family member.

Love her or hate though, you must admit Zikhona made the viewer understand Mandisa’s frustration with the Zulu brothers. Being in a relationship with a man whose family is involved in criminal activities that she sometimes had to cover up, give them an heir (we all know how precious boy children are to the Zulu brothers), and still be disrespected and not deemed worthy enough to be married into their family got the better of her.

The last on-screen moment of Mandisa is when, after losing everything; her husband, child, home, and business because of the Zulu brothers’ shady ways, she sits hopelessly on the ground, gripping the lifeless body of her son, and warns one of the other wives, Hlomu played by Mbalenhle Mavimbela, that she too might experience this pain one day, and then pulls the trigger that takes her life.

South Africa is filled with talented creatives, and Zikhona Sodlaka is certainly one of them! She’s definitely a The Fuse favorite! We can’t wait to see what she does next!

Image credit: Zikhona Sodlaka instagram

From lecture halls and nine-to-fives to travelling Europe and inspiring humanity – this is the Quava Vocal Group story

Entertainment, Fused, Lifestyle, Local Entertainment , Stories of South Africa / November 3, 2022

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Music forms a big part of human nature, there’s a song for every occasion, whether good or bad. Those who have been trusted with the delicate talent of making music often struggle with letting it go when called to other paths. Therefore Khabonina Dlamini, Sabelo Mthembu and a few others formed Quava Vocal Group in 2009 after graduating from the University of Johannesburg.

“We were part of the University of Johannesburg Choir while studying, and after graduating, we wanted to continue the culture of choral singing, so we formed the group,” Sabelo, who is the conductor and music director of the group tells The Fuse.

Now 13 years later, Sabelo works a nine-to-five as a Data Analyst for Multichoice, but you’ll find him at rehearsals every Monday evening. “We rehearse every Monday evening from 6pm to 8pm and occasionally on weekends for “camp” rehearsals,” he says.

Making music requires more than just talent, commitment is also key to succeeding. “Each member is chosen based on their talent, which includes vocal quality, good ear and availability. Singing history is not a requirement as long as the singer has a passion for music and hard work,” Sabelo adds.

Hard work pays off

Each member of Quava has these qualities, which makes it no surprise that the group recently travelled abroad and swept audiences off their feet and collected a few awards along the way! “We embarked on a performance tour of Italy and Spain for two weeks (6 – 18 October 2022). In Italy, we presented two concerts and did a workshop with a local choir from Rome called Coro Cantering. In Spain, we took part in a competition called Sing For Gold World Choral Cup.

“We took part in two categories: adult category and jazz, pop, and gospel categories. We won both categories and placed in the top 3 best choirs in the overall competition. I was also awarded the best conductor prize,” a very humble Sabelo shares.

Preparing for this trip wasn’t a walk in the park for the uber-talented group. “Funding was the biggest challenge. Covid was also a big challenge because lockdowns made rehearsing very difficult,” but because of each member’s dedication and faith in God, they soon overcame their challenges with the bigger picture in mind.

“To overcome funding challenges, we had to be very innovative. We presented several concerts in which we collaborated with other choirs. I also used my Comrades Marathon run to raise funds. To overcome covid challenges, we had to do virtual rehearsals and provide each singer with their individual voice parts so that they can rehearse on their own at home,” Sabelo explains. And soon enough, the group was ready for take-off!

First-time travellers

This trip meant so much to several members of the group – ten singers were travelling abroad for the first time. Mbali Faku, who only joined the group a year ago, is one of the singers who left South African shores for the first time.

“Touring Italy and Spain with Quava Vocal Group was life-changing! I am so grateful for this lifetime opportunity and just the thrill of being a part of something so much bigger than you. I’ve never felt so alive. I lived in the moment and enjoyed every little bit of what this experience had to offer,” she tells us.

“My top two fondest moments or memories were: First, singing for and connecting with the people of Calella through our music. I couldn’t help but smile and look into their eyes while singing. Second, the bonds I got to form with my fellow choristers. We held each other down throughout. The challenges we faced were easy to overcome because we did it together. I can’t wait for what’s to come for Quava. I pray we get to do something like this yearly,” Mbali adds.

The Future

Quava Vocal Group has even bigger dreams and goals for the future. They look forward to releasing their first album in 2023 and hope to tour more of South Africa. The group have also set their sights on collaborations with local and international composers.

“We are truly blessed to be able to use our gifts to touch many people’s hearts across the world. Our values are God, love, and excellence. We are humbled to be used by God to make music that heals people and gives them hope, to radiate love in everything we do, and to be a good model for excellence,” Sabelo concludes.

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