Zee Nxumalo reflects on her breakthrough year in 2024 and shares her ambitious plans for 2025, including new music, global collaborations, and electrifying performances.

At just 22 years old, South African amapiano sensation Zee Nxumalo is already a force to be reckoned with in the global music scene.

In a year that saw her chart-topping hits, viral collaborations, and high-profile partnerships, the rising star has turned heads and captured hearts across the world. But as the calendar turns to 2025, Nxumalo’s rise shows no signs of slowing down—if anything, it’s accelerating.

With an impressive list of accolades already under her belt, including being named Apple Music’s “Up Next Artist” and scoring a prestigious nomination at the GQ Men of the Year Awards, Zee’s journey from local talent to global superstar seems destined for greatness.

In an exclusive interview, Nxumalo reflected on her breakthrough year, touching on her most iconic moments and revealing what’s next for the future of amapiano.

Despite the massive success she’s already achieved, her focus remains unshaken—her love for performing and creating new music.

“2024 has been everything I dreamed of and more, but it’s just the beginning,” she said, a smile of determination in her voice. “The best is yet to come.”

Her big year was packed with monumental milestones, from performing at some of South Africa’s most renowned festivals to collaborating with major brands. Most notably, Nxumalo signed on as a brand ambassador for global sportswear giant Puma.

Alongside fellow amapiano star Young Stunna, Nxumalo is set to take the iconic brand into 2025 with fresh ideas and a vibrant energy that speaks to her expanding influence. “Being part of Puma is a dream come true.

I’ve got so many exciting things planned for next year. I can’t wait to bring my ideas to life with a brand that speaks to both fashion and culture,” she shared with palpable excitement.

This partnership not only highlights her growing profile but also solidifies her status as one of the most dynamic young artists in the industry.

But it wasn’t just fashion that propelled Nxumalo to new heights. She also made waves in the food industry with her collaboration with McDonald’s South Africa.

The partnership involved Nxumalo crafting an exclusive amapiano track for the launch of the Grimace Shake, which quickly went viral.

The creative blend of music, culture, and brand collaboration showcased her unique ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist and engage with a diverse audience.

It was clear that Nxumalo had mastered the art of combining entertainment with marketing, and fans loved every minute of it.

When it comes to her upcoming plans for 2025, Nxumalo is looking to continue her whirlwind pace, especially when it comes to performing live.

“I’m going to be on stage doing what I love most—connecting with my fans,” she stated, her passion for live shows evident in every word.

In the early months of 2025, Nxumalo is set to hit the stage in Durban for some of the most highly anticipated events of the year, including Fact Durban Rocks for Malume Tira.

But it doesn’t end there—she also has a show scheduled in Welkom, and her excitement for these performances is contagious.

Reflecting on the past year, Zee Nxumalo shared that the most valuable lesson she learned was the importance of trusting her instincts and working as part of a team.

“Instincts are everything. Trusting yourself and surrounding yourself with people who believe in the vision can make all the difference,” she said.

“I’m so grateful for the team that has supported me this year. It’s not just about what you do individually, but how well you work together to achieve something bigger.”

As someone who has achieved so much at such a young age, it’s clear that Nxumalo’s mindset is one of hard work and focus. “I don’t set resolutions. I don’t believe in fate or luck,” she explained.

“Success is about putting in the work, staying consistent, and pushing through challenges.” This practical approach is part of what makes her so grounded, despite the overwhelming success she’s already experienced.

With 2025 just around the corner, Zee Nxumalo is ready to keep the momentum going. Her latest project, “Inja Ye Game,” is already making waves in the amapiano scene and has received a warm reception from fans.

As part of her upcoming plans, Nxumalo is looking forward to releasing visuals for the project and hosting a major show to celebrate its success.

“I’m excited to share more of ‘Inja Ye Game’ with my fans. The response so far has been amazing, and I can’t wait to take it to the next level with visuals and a big live show,” she said.

One of her most memorable moments of the past year came during New Year’s Eve 2023 when her track “Funk 55” was the soundtrack of the celebration.

“It was my first big celebration, and I’ll never forget how special it felt to know that my music was part of so many people’s celebrations,” she reminisced.

This moment, filled with pride and gratitude, was a testament to how far she has come and how much further she plans to go.

For Zee Nxumalo, 2024 was a year of both triumphs and lessons learned. She’s already proven herself to be a powerhouse in the amapiano scene, and as we move into 2025, it’s clear that she’s not just here to stay—she’s here to redefine the industry.

Her unique blend of talent, business acumen, and passion for her craft has set her apart from the rest, and fans can expect even more from this trailblazer in the year to come.

Nxumalo’s journey has only just begun, and with her talent, vision, and relentless drive, there’s no doubt that she will continue to make waves not only in South Africa but across the world.

As the amapiano genre continues to take the global stage by storm, Zee Nxumalo stands poised to lead the charge into an exciting new era of music, culture, and innovation.

So, as 2025 unfolds, one thing is for sure: Zee Nxumalo will be at the center of it all, shaking up the music scene and proving that when it comes to success, there are no limits.