Sonic Landscapes

Genre Showcase

Celebrating the rich tapestry of South African music. From the roots of traditional sounds to the global waves of Amapiano.

Gauteng, 2012

Amapiano

A hybrid of deep house, jazz and lounge music characterized by synths, airy pads and wide percussive basslines.

Soweto, 1990s

Kwaito

A music genre that emerged in Johannesburg during the 1990s. It is a variant of house music featuring the use of African sounds and samples.

Sophiatown, 1950s

South African Jazz

A unique style of jazz that originated in South Africa, heavily influenced by American jazz but with distinct African rhythmic and harmonic elements.

Cape Town, 1980s

Hip-Hop / Rap

South African hip hop, also known as Motswako or Kasirap, blends American hip hop with local languages and stories.

National

Afro-Pop

Popular music from South Africa that blends traditional African music with Western pop and jazz influences.

National

Soul

South African Soul blends the smooth textures of American R&B with distinctively South African vocal styles and languages.

Urban Centers

R&B

A vibrant genre that blends global R&B trends with local flavors, creating a unique sound that resonates with the youth.

Various Regions

Traditional & Indigenous

Music that preserves the cultural heritage of South Africa's diverse ethnic groups, including Maskandi, Mbhaqanga, and others.

Pretoria/Johannesburg

House Music

South Africa is often called the biggest house music market in the world per capita, with a distinct deep and soulful style.

Contemporary

Afro-Fusion

A contemporary blend of various African styles with modern production techniques.

Durban/Limpopo

Electronic & Experimental

Pushing the boundaries of sound with Gqom, Shangaan Electro, and other avant-garde styles.