The Sound of 2025: South Africa’s Radio Stations Reveal “Song of the Year” Winners

As the clock struck midnight and 2026 began, South African radio stations officially unveiled the tracks that defined the past year. While Amapiano and Afro-soul continued to dominate, the 2025 results highlight a significant trend: the absolute dominance of Sam Deep and Boohle, alongside powerful regional movements that shook the national charts.

The Clean Sweep: “Shela” Takes Over

The most inescapable anthem of 2025 was undoubtedly “Shela” by Sam Deep and Boohle. The track pulled off a rare “triple crown,” winning the top spot at three major stations with very different listener profiles:

• YFM: The youth-focused station embraced the song’s house and Afro-soul textures.
• Motsweding FM: Proved the track’s cross-generational appeal among Setswana-speaking audiences.
• Kaya FM: Its sophisticated production made it a perfect fit for the station’s adult contemporary “Afropolitan” format.

Station-by-Station Breakdown

Notable Winners & Regional Power

• The Comeback: DJ Tira proved his staying power by clinching the Gagasi FM title with “Awungazi”, a track that became the unofficial anthem of KwaZulu-Natal’s nightlife.
• The Cultural Giant: On the nation’s biggest station, Ukhozi FM, Umafikizolo reigned supreme. Their win emphasizes the deep connection listeners still have with music that honors heritage while staying modern.
• The Limpopo Wave: Shebeshxt continues his meteoric rise, with Thobela FM listeners voting “Rato Laka” as their definitive sound of 2025, proving that regional township sounds are now mainstream powerhouses.
• The Rising Star: Ciza’s win at Metro FM with “Isaka” marks a major milestone for the artist, signaling his transition into the elite tier of South African vocalists.