Babalwa M

Babalwa M, born Babalwa Mavuso on 25 January 1994, is a Soweto-born singer and songwriter, celebrated as one of the most distinctive voices shaping today’s amapiano landscape. Raised in Protea Glen after being born in Orlando, she discovered her passion for music at a young age through church choirs and youth performances. Although she later pursued a diploma in Media and Journalism, her true calling continually drew her back to music, where her gentle yet assured vocal style found its natural home.

Her career began to take shape around 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, a period that encouraged her to explore her musical identity with greater intention. From this period of reflection emerged a sound now closely associated with private school amapiano — a smoother, soulful, and jazz-tinged interpretation of the genre. Babalwa M’s vocals are soft, warm, and expressive, lending her music an elegant and comforting quality that sets her apart in a scene often dominated by high-energy production.

She made her official debut with the EP Bayeke, followed by the album Aluta Continua in 2021, firmly establishing herself as an artist with a clear and distinctive voice. She continued to refine her sound through releases such as Pisces and Candour, each project revealing growth, vulnerability, and a deepening sense of musical identity. Her collaborations with some of amapiano’s leading contributors have further amplified her reach and cemented her place within the genre.

Babalwa M’s rise has been marked by notable achievements. In 2024, she was named Spotify EQUAL Africa Artist of the Month, a milestone that highlighted her expanding influence across the continent. In 2025, she won Amapiano Artist of the Year at the Basadi in Music Awards and received a nomination for Best Female Artist at the Metro FM Music Awards — recognition of her artistry, consistency, and impact.

Above all, Babalwa M is defined by her authenticity. She continues to champion a sound that is soft, soulful, and true to her identity. Through her music, she creates space for women in amapiano and demonstrates that gentleness, sincerity, and emotional depth can thrive at the forefront of the genre.