Spotify has announced that South African R&B singer and songwriter Lusanda Ngcobo, known simply as Lusanda, will be its EQUAL Africa Artist for September. The move highlights the platform’s commitment to elevating women musicians across the continent and introduces Lusanda’s music to a wider global audience.
Lusanda’s selection follows a series of career milestones, most notably her historic appearance as the first South African woman to feature on Spotify Singles. In that release, she reimagined Gary Jules’ take on Tears for Fears’ “Mad World,” delivering a stripped‑back version that showcased her distinctive vocals and emotional depth.
Phiona Okumu, Head of Music at Spotify Sub‑Saharan Africa, said, "We're excited to spotlight Lusanda again this September and help introduce her music to even more listeners around the world. Her journey speaks to the depth of women's talent emerging from the continent – a striking and individual voice that her growing fanbase loves."
Lusanda’s partnership with Spotify began with her debut single “When You’re Around,” which received support through the platform’s Fresh Finds Africa programme. Since then she has blended R&B, pop and contemporary sounds while maintaining an intimate, honest vocal style.
She welcomed the September honour, noting that EQUAL has helped her secure full‑set performances in Johannesburg and record a Spotify Singles. "Our industry needs more EQUALs that don't just use the language of supporting us, but actually put their resources behind women artists," she said.
The recognition comes as Lusanda prepares to release her forthcoming EP, By The Time I Wake Up, on 11 September 2026. The lead single of the same name offers listeners a glimpse into the project’s themes of love, honesty and personal growth.
Fans and industry insiders alike will be watching to see how Lusanda’s visibility on Spotify’s platform translates into further opportunities and how her unique voice continues to shape South Africa’s contemporary R&B scene.
