In a remarkable turn highlighting the shift in South African hip-hop, Usimamane’s emotional tune “Uvalo” (in collaboration with Sjava) has officially overtaken K.O’s explosive anthem “Sete” in Spotify streams, marking a noteworthy achievement worth celebrating.
“Uvalo” has drawn in around 10.7 million streams worldwide on Spotify, whereas K.O’s “Sete”, a notable collaboration with Young Stunna & Blxckie, has achieved approximately 10.6 million total Spotify streams.
This indicates a margin of about 100k streams, a notable difference placing Usimamane prominently at the forefront of the current charts.
Originating from Umlazi, Usimamane has rapidly established himself as a key voice in the new wave of South African hip-hop. His debut album, 20th: Days Before Maud, landed like a cultural phenomenon in late 2024, igniting discussions well beyond music. Fusing township narratives with contemporary sonic innovation, the project didn’t merely introduce him; it solidified his standing in the industry.
By mid-2025, the album transcended being just a debut; it became a declaration of purpose, redefining the narrative around what can be achieved by a young, homegrown rapper grappling with identity, fame, and emotional depth.
Among the highlights from the album, “Uvalo” stands out not just for its streaming figures but also for its profound emotional resonance and refined craftsmanship. The track explores the subdued struggles of fear and vulnerability within relationships, showcased through Usimamane’s smooth, melody-infused delivery.
Grounded in the streets of Durban and enhanced by a sophisticated musical style, his performance merges reflective lyricism with inventive genre fluidity.
K.O’s “Sete,” which debuted in August 2022, quickly secured its place as one of the most impactful tracks in contemporary South African music. The single defied expectations by being the fastest local song to attain Gold status, exceeding 1.2 million streams in record time. Its dominance continued as “Sete” maintained the number one position on radio for an impressive twelve weeks consecutively.
With a harmonious blend of amapiano beats and hip-hop vigor, bolstered by standout contributions from Young Stunna and Blxckie, the track forged a multi-genre legacy still shaping the scene today.
Now, three years later, Usimamane’s “Uvalo” surpasses K.O’s “Sete” in the streaming rankings on Spotify, signaling a dynamic shift; the new generation is not just present but already taking the helm. This transformation is not solely about numbers; it reflects the new energy, emotional richness, and authenticity that Usimamane infuses into the music landscape.
His accolades include several nominations at the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards and Urban Music Awards, as well as being recognized as Apple Music’s “Rap Life Africa” featured artist in early 2024.
Apart from streaming metrics, Usimamane epitomizes the potential of contemporary South African hip-hop—driven, soulful, and unreservedly expressive. “Uvalo” is more than just a hit; it signifies a pivotal moment for a fresh wave of artists.
