Zee Nxumalo: Defining 2025 across music, media and culture

“Zee’s rise has never been accidental. What people are seeing now is the result of an unbelievable work ethic, a deep love for craft, and a hunger that never switches off,” says Shingai Darangwa, her long-time manager and co-founder of Punchline Projects. “She shows up every day with the same intensity, whether she’s in studio, on set, or in a boardroom, and that consistency is what separates generational talent from fleeting success.”

Darangwa emphasises the collective effort behind Zee’s achievements. “One of the most special things about Zee is how seriously she takes the team around her,” he says. “She understands that greatness is built collectively. From creative to management to production, everyone is aligned around a shared vision, and that trust has allowed her to move fast, take risks, and keep raising the bar without losing herself in the process.”

Looking ahead, the focus is on growth and legacy. “As proud as we are of what she’s achieved this year, we’re already fully tapped into 2026,” Darangwa adds. “There’s a new, bigger merchandise collection coming, a significant expansion of her live show, and a clear elevation in the level and scope of her brand partnerships. Zee is entering a new chapter where everything scales up, but the intention and authenticity remain exactly the same.”

At the outset of her career, Zee Nxumalo has already achieved a level of success that many artists spend a lifetime pursuing. While 2025 was defined by ownership and influence, 2026 is poised to focus on legacy.

Seven highlights from Zee Nxumalo’s 2025:

1. Most-streamed female artist in South Africa
   Zee ended the year as the most-streamed female artist in the country, ending Taylor Swift’s four-year run atop local streaming charts. The milestone reinforced her position as both a fan favourite and a commercial force.
2. ‘Ngisakuthanda’ surpasses 100 million streams
   Originally released in 2024, ‘Ngisakuthanda’ achieved a second surge in 2025, surpassing 100 million streams across digital platforms. The track demonstrated remarkable longevity and cultural resonance.
3. Short film expands her storytelling
   Ngisakuthanda: The Short Film has amassed over 600,000 views on YouTube, showcasing Zee as a storyteller and performer capable of translating music into visual narratives.
4. Viral success with ‘Mamma’
   ‘Mamma’ became a prominent TikTok sound while its music video topped television charts, highlighting Zee’s ability to create content that bridges digital and traditional media.
5. Brand partnerships across sectors
   Zee fronted campaigns for Puma South Africa, KFC Streetwise Loaded, and Brutal Fruit Spritzer’s The Pink Table, and hosted the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards Pre-Show, reflecting both mass appeal and cultural credibility.
6. Industry recognition
   She was awarded the GLAMOUR Women of the Year: Editors Award and named Basadi in Music Artist of the Year, underlining both her artistic achievements and her impact as a young woman shaping the industry.
7. Merchandise success
   Her collaboration with The Fix sold out at retail, demonstrating her influence beyond music and positioning her for further ventures into fashion and consumer culture.