Boohle
In 2025, South African radio highlighted various musical talents with their annual Song of the Year announcements.
The music selections ranged from amapiano hits to soulful R&B and maskandi-oriented tracks, showcasing a lively audio landscape that resonated with a diverse audience.
The following is an overview of the standout tracks that were recognized as the most significant and celebrated by major South African radio stations.
Metro FM – Isaka: Ciza
Metro FM selected “Ciza” by Isaka as its Song of the Year. The track’s meaningful lyrics and catchy melody made a strong impression on listeners, resulting in frequent airtime and audience engagement throughout the year. Ciza combines modern Afro-pop elements with a soulful approach, making it a suitable choice for Metro FM’s diverse audience.
Ukhozi FM – Umafikizolo: Uzoncengwa unyoko
Ukhozi FM’s selection was “Uzoncengwa Unyoko” by Umafikizolo, which beautifully merges traditional sounds with contemporary vibes. Its resonance among isiZulu-speaking listeners contributed to its success on the station’s charts, highlighting Ukhozi FM’s commitment to local language and culture.
Thobela FM – Shebeshxt: Rato laka
“Rato Laka” by Shebeshxt was named Song of the Year at Thobela FM. With its vibrant rhythm and captivating performance, it gained popularity particularly in the northern regions, underlining the influence of regional music genres on the national landscape.
Gagasi FM – DJ Tira: Awungazi
Listeners of Gagasi FM chose “Awungazi” by DJ Tira as their top track of the year. This song, known for its dance-driven beat and the blend of kwaito and amapiano styles from KwaZulu-Natal, found a home in weekend playlists and club settings, appealing to the youthful audience of Gagasi FM.
YFM – Sam Deep & Boohle: Shela
At YFM, the favorite track was “Shela” by Sam Deep and Boohle. Its seamless integration of house and Afro-soul elements garnered substantial support among the youth audience. The collaboration between Sam Deep and Boohle allowed “Shela” to become an anthem at the station.
Motsweding FM – Sam Deep & Boohle: Shela
Motsweding FM also recognized “Shela” by Sam Deep and Boohle as its Song of the Year. The track’s wide-ranging appeal connected well with the station’s expansive listener demographic, merging township influences with mainstream appeal.
Umhlobo Wenene FM – Mr Vee Sholo: Umalume
“Umalume” by Mr Vee Sholo emerged as the top song on Umhlobo Wenene FM. Its engaging hook and local essence resonated with audiences, reinforcing the station’s tradition of promoting hits with strong cultural connections.
Kaya FM – Sam Deep & Boohle: Shela
Kaya FM similarly acknowledged “Shela” by Sam Deep and Boohle as its Song of the Year. The track’s refined production and broad appeal suited Kaya FM’s varied adult contemporary format, making it a notable choice among different listener segments.
The Song of the Year selections across South African radio demonstrate the widespread success of Sam Deep & Boohle’s “Shela” on multiple platforms as well as the rich variety within the country’s music offerings.
