Zee Nxumalo's incredible journey: 5 milestones that shaped her record-breaking year
AmaPiano sensation Zee Nxumalo shattered records in 2023, becoming Spotify's most-streamed South African female artist, landing a Nickelodeon deal, and winning Sofnfree Artist of the Year. Discover the five milestones that catapulted her to stardom.
Image: Supplied/ Instagram
AmaPiano star, Zandile ‘Zee’ Nxumalo, is concluding the year on a high note, leaving her fans exceptionally proud. She reflects on her significant achievements.
The South African singer and songwriter has been in headlines since the beginning of the year, and is now celebrating a milestone in her musical career.
Here are highlights of her major headlines and achievements this year:
Brutal Fruit, headlining 3 cities
The singer showcased her growth in music as a performer by headlining the recent Brutal Fruit event series in three cities. Her unique and fresh musical experience included a first-ever performance with a band, an experience she later shared her feelings about on Instagram.
“Zee, headline all 3 cities around the country… BUT with a live band 😳‼️‼️”I said:1️⃣ Out of my comfort zone 💔2️⃣ I’ve never done this before 3️⃣ I’m scared 😭But when God shows up… He shows off. 🙌✨ Thank you so much to my BIGTEAM 🤍” she captured her Instagram post.
Most-streamed South African female artist on Spotify
Nxumalo has reached significant career heights, most notably being named the Most Streamed South African Female Artist. Her single, "Ngisakuthanda," achieved a major milestone by reaching the number one position across all genres on Apple Music South Africa.
Additionally, she shared on her Instagram that she was recognized as the most streamed South African artist in 2025 capturing, “Channeling the ledendary Lebo Mathosa👑”
Nxumalo's Nickelodeon Partnership and Career Milestones
In June, Nxumalo signed an agreement with Nickelodeon Africa, marking a significant milestone in her career. As part of this deal, she released the song "US’ponge," inspired by the Nickelodeon character SpongeBob.
Before the release, she engaged with fans on X (formerly Twitter), asking, "Just signed a deal with Nickelodeon. They want me to do a song for SpongeBob. Must I make it in Zulu?"
Further, for her agreement, she was invited to host the Kids’ Choice Awards in 2025.
“Hosting the pre-show and reimagining the SpongeBob theme song in Amapiano has been such a fun experience. I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve got in store!” This was also another opportunity for her career.
Nivea and "House of Zwide"
The star's partnership with Nivea led to an appearance on the ETV show "House of Zwide". She was introduced as the "queen of AmaPiano" and performed during a runway show, delighting her fans. For instance, TikTok fan @Shanty girl commented, "I was so happy to see you on House of Zwide."
Sofnfree Artist of the Year award
In June, she achieved a significant milestone for a female artist in the AmaPiano industry when she was nominated four times for the "Izinja zeGame" project at the Basadi In Music Awards.
Her nominations included Amapiano Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, and Song of the Year, ultimately leading to her winning the Sofnfree Artist of the Year award.
Upon receiving her award, she offered words of gratitude, saying, "Thank you so much to the people that voted for me, iyathusa lento (this is shocking), I'm usually the girl who brings the vibe to the stage, and today I have to speak English before such a large audience."
These events collectively signify a major and iconic change in her life and career trajectory.
The star has repeatedly demonstrated to her fans why she deserves their support, leading to hopes for a successful conclusion to her year.
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