Sykes is setting his sights on a solo concert as he continues to grow his music empire.
Image: Kganya Holomo
Sykes is one of the artists shaping the current sound of South African music.
Known as The Zulu Michael Jackson, he commands attention on stage and continues to build a growing audience across the country.
Born Ayabonga Zuma, he is a singer and songwriter who has become a prominent figure in a short space of time. His breakthrough came with the single “iPlan” alongside Dlala Thukzin, which reached double platinum status and introduced his sound to a wider audience.
His music blends traditional African influences such as maskandi and mbaqanga with contemporary genres including amapiano, afrotech and gqom. This mix has helped him stand out in a competitive industry while staying connected to his roots.
Earlier this year, he released “Awukwazi”, a single featuring his sisters and MK Productions, showing a more personal side to his work.
He also runs Lekelela Entertainment, a platform he is using to grow his career and support new talent.
“Independent Media Lifestyle” caught up with Sykes at the Kelvin Momo One Man Concert at People’s Park in Durban, where he shared insight into his plans.
“I’m dropping new music soon. I'm also hoping and working on having a show of my own. A one-man show that people can come and experience me for who I really am musically. And just take it all the way deep down there. Deep down into my soul,” he said.
On Lekelela Entertainment, he said, “Lekelela is working on Sykes as a priority, but we're also working on signing people that I won't mention for now. I also want to empower other people with the little that I was given for them to carry on forward.”
Speaking about his work with Tribe Of Afro, he added, “We have been working on music. The songs are definitely going to be on my album. I’m also going to be on their projects. It’s an exchange of energy.”
Reflecting on the concert, he said, “It's dope. The support shows that music speaks and travels anywhere. It also gives me faith that I can do it.”
Sykes is nominated at the Metro FM Music Awards 2026 in the Best Music Video category for “Mamma", a collaboration with Zee Nxumalo and Skillz.
He is also featured on “Ngiyozama” by Kabza De Small, which is nominated for Best Amapiano.