The Top 20 contestants have been announced for the 8th edition of the hottest music talent competition for Eswatini’s #YoungGiftedFree, MTN Bushfire Firefly2025!
It’s time to vote for the Top 10 artists out of the Top 20 initial selection in 2025. The Top 10 artists with the most votes will perform at the MTN Bushfire Firefly Grand Finale, to be held on Thursday, 24 April 2025 at House On Fire, which will also feature an exciting South African guest artist. The Top 3 winning artists will get the opportunity to perform at the globally acclaimed MTN Bushfire festival in Eswatini, to be held from 30 May – 1 June 2025.
MTN Bushfire Firefly is a youth music competition aimed at developing emerging talent in Eswatini, part of MTN Bushfire’s drive to create sustainable careers for young talent in the music industry. Over the years, the competition has established an inspiring track record of unearthing, promoting and supporting emerging talent by giving the youth a credible platform to share their music with a wide audience.
To date, the music competition has empowered over 100 up-and-coming artists, most of whom have used this opportunity to elevate their musical careers and become recognised artists in the Eswatini and international music industries.
The array of talent on display was dazzling and the judges had a tough time selecting the Top 20 out of 254 applications. Those who weren’t selected are urged to try again next year.
Voting for The Top 10 closes on 26 March, at 11:59pm. Everyone is urged to support these young, up-and-coming artists and join the movement to promote Eswatini arts from grassroots level to the globe.
How to vote: Download the innovative AYOBA App via https://i.ayo.ba/YgBb/firefly, follow the MTN Bushfire Firefly channel, vote once on the voting poll and like your favourite artist posts.
For more information, visit www.bush-fire.com/firefly. Follow us on Facebook: MTN Bushfire Firefly, Instagram: MTN Bushfire Firefly and Twitter @MTNBushfireFly. Look out for exciting giveaways and competitions!
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
How to Vote on Ayoba:
- Download the AYOBA App via https://i.ayo.ba/YgBb/firefly and follow the MTN Bushfire Firefly channel.
- Vote for your favourite artist on the Ayoba Poll. You can only cast 1 vote per poll i.e. only one artist
- Like your favourite artists’ individual posts. You can only Like an individual post once, but you are allowed to like more than one artist’s post.
- You can only Like an individual post once. You are allowed to like more than one artist post
- You can only Like an individual post once. You are allowed to like more than one artist post.
- Voting closes on 26 March at 11:59pm.
Follow the MTN Bushfire Firefly journey on the competition’s social media channels.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Time to meet the Top 20!
Ace Julz
Rapper, singer, songwriter and record producer Andzile Mabuza, better known as Ace Julz, skilfully navigates the complex melodies and rhythms of Hip Hop, captivating audiences with his distinct blend of infectious beats, brilliant wordplay, and thought-provoking lyrics. He recently founded the rap group Emalangeni, and his distinctive style and lyrical skill are on full display in his 2025 single, “Say It”.
Amarii
A high-energy performer, this versatile rapper’s music combines colourful Hip Hop, heartfelt Rap and expressive RnB. His music resonates, examining the transition from teenager to adult with relatable, catchy hooks and lyrics. Bouncy, rhythmic instrumentals and melodic flows underpin his hard bars. Born Lindelani Simelane, he derives his stage name from the Latin for ‘love’.
As4JerryP
Hailing from Siteki, As4JerryP (Phumlani S. Dlamini) is a dynamic dancer, songwriter, recording artist and performer whose passion for music won him an NCAC competition in 2023. His signature sound, Shuni wa Somhlolo, fuses modern beats with oral traditions, creating a powerful bridge between traditional culture and contemporary music. His upcoming debut album, “Libhungu Lemhlolo” caught the attention of Eswatini record label Upscale Live, who recently signed him.
Bluujay
Mnqobi Nkambule, aka Bluujay, is a 25-year-old rapper from Mbabane who released his debut EP “The Collision Theory” in 2020. Bluujay is capturing the hearts of Hip Hop fans and making waves with a unique blend of lyrical depth and dynamic performances. With his relentless pursuit of excellence and his deep-rooted passion, distinctive style and compelling storytelling, he is poised to redefine the rap landscape in Eswatini and beyond.
Celumusa
Celumusa Mkhaliphi is a professional singer/songwriter and acoustic guitarist from Manzini, with an Afro Pop/Afro Soul sound. His soulful melodies and captivating guitar riffs have earned him a dedicated following. He released his first EP ‘Tears’ in 2019, subsequently streamed on the 2020 London Music Video Festival. Look out for his latest love song, Sondzela’, an upbeat Afro Pop anthem set to drop at the end of March.
Okoohle
Okoohle, born Fisokuhle Dlamini, is an indie creative, songwriter and vocalist who proudly writes and sings in in Siswati. She has recorded vocals on various Amapiano and Afro House tracks, with a range of local and international composers. These include the 2025 track “Sengim’tfolile”, in collaboration with South Africans Stay Real Music and Danger Leyoza, as well as the Eswatini/Zambia production duo SoulToniq, and “Mshimane”, which dropped in 2024.
eMStar Teaniba
Mayibongwe “eMStar Teaniba” Shongwe is an emerging voice in Hip Hop, with a distinctive style that bridges raw emotional authenticity with sophisticated narrative techniques. His innovative approach to music and storytelling, and dedication to nurturing emerging talent through Teaniclubworld Music marks him as a significant force in the industry. His participation in the Africa Rising Music Conference led to a partnership with global distribution label Paradise Worldwide Africa.
Ghetto Villah
Vusi Maziya, aka Ghetto Villah, started recording music at the age of 14 at inQgnito Productions House under the mentorship of Slim Q. A superb lyricist who paints vivid images with each line, he has been instrumental in promoting Kasi Rap in Eswatini. When you hear a random person say “Etchesa!”, know that they have caught the Villah Bug.
Greg XV
An energetic performer, Greg Dlamini, better known as Greg XV, began his career as a 15-year-old dancer in the Teletubbies crew. His musical interests range from Conscious Rap, Deep Rap and Trap to RnB and Afro Soul, reflecting his spiritual journey and life as a musician in both Eswatini and South Africa, where he has proudly represented the Kingdom, signing on with numerous labels, as well as acting.
Hailey Thomas
Hailey Thomas is a versatile singer/songwriter from Manzini, whose musical creativity shines in multiple genres, mainly RnB, House, Afrobeats, Soul and Rap. Catching attention with her rap videos and song covers on social media, her most recent single “In The Dark”, featuring Stickx and K.Darrow, also became her debut music video. At home in the studio, she is stepping outside her comfort zone by entering the Firefly competition.
Hapkoo
Prudence Maseko, aka Hapkoo, is a rising artist known for her soulful voice and infectious energy. With a unique blend of Afro Pop, Afro Trap and Soul, Hapkoo is gaining a following among music fans of all ages. After honing her craft in dancing Gqom, Amapiano and RnB, she has embarked on a journey of healing souls with her angelic voice.
K.Darrow
K.Darrow (Letsie Mohale) identifies himself as an “Afro-Sintfu” artist, a term he coined to describe his unique blend of Afrobeats, Trap, and traditional Swazi elements, with Hip Hop and Kwaito influences. Over the past three years he has developed a unique vocal style and strong songwriting skills. His sound is unifying and inspiring, with the empowering sentiment of Pan-Africanism. His latest single “Kiss Kiss” is a catchy anthem that seals his spot as a pioneer of Afro-Sintfu music.
Mad Uno
Mancoba Silindinkosi Dlamini, popularly known as Mad Uno, is a rapper, producer and perfroming artist from Mbabane. His musical interests have transitioned from Hip Hip and Rap, to Amapiano. He first featured on “Ama Ambulance” With DJ Stig, Dj Smk, Msandi and Tkmaggz in 2021 and dropped his debut single, “Ace+Veuve” later the same year, followed by “Amaloss” in 2022. His third single “Dlala Ka Yona” dropped in 2024.
N Kay & Smalley
N Kay & Smally are a dynamic musical duo, known for their unique blend of sounds that seamlessly fuse modern Afro Pop, Amapiano, and traditional influences. Their music is a reflection of their shared experiences, passion, and deep-rooted connection as family. Emotive and energetic, their music effortlessly blends soulful melodies with high-energy beats, seasoned with meaningful lyrics and vibrant dance tracks.
Nelly Noll
Nolwethu Nelisiwe Mkhatshwa. professionally known as Nelly Noll, is a dynamic singer, songwriter, and performing artist from Siteki. She blends Afro Soul, RnB, and Swazi cultural influences into a sound that is both captivating and deeply personal. Her first single, “Deeper”, released in 2024, was closely followed by the culturally rich and soulful “Timbali”. Her latest release, “Mkhatshwa”, in 2025, pays homage to her roots, identity, and heritage.
Pretty Hle
Pretty Hle (Sihlelelwe Maseko) is a vocalist, dancer, and songwriter from Big Bend. Passionate about music and performance, she combines soulful vocals with expressive dance, creating captivating experiences. Her songs focus on storytelling, deeply rooted in strongly emotional, meaningful lyrics that reflect her personal and cultural influences. She has featured on Virtousouls’ “Sekuseduze” and “Le Gender”, as well as the song “Mshimane”.
Quekey
Quekey, real name Cebolethu Malinga, is an up-and-coming artist from Bhunya. He brings a fresh and unique sound, blending Soulful Amapiano and Gqom to create a distinct and engaging style that resonates with audiences. He has collaborated with South African DJ TPZ on the song “Aziwe”, as well as with Eswatini’s Lady Sphesh on “Sitsetselele”, and with TN$ Savvy.
Teshiselo
Teshiselo Dlamini is known for her soulful blend of Neo-Soul and RnB, bringing a unique chill and relaxed style to her music. Her sound avoids overwhelming noise and busyness, focusing on smooth, emotive vibes that resonate deeply with listeners. In addition to her primary genres, Teshiselo explores Deep House and Private School Amapiano, incorporating fresh influences into her evolving sound.
Umzi
Umzi, (Mzomhle Simelane), is a singer, songwriter and artist who seamlessly blends Hip Hop, Afro Soul, and Amapiano. With a voice that transitions effortlessly between deep, soulful tones and rhythmic melodies, he brings raw emotion to every track. Inspired by traditional music, spirituality, and morality, Umzi’s sound resonates with both urban and rural audiences. His latest song, “Bashingi”, is deep and thought-provoking, exploring themes of humanity, conflict, and values degradation.
Wess June Ten
Muzi Sibusiso Mkhonta, better known by his stage name Wess June Ten, producer and singer-songwriter known for distinctive melodic raps, heartfelt lyrics, and rich, granular vocals blending Siswati and English. He brings a fresh and compelling sound to the music scene, debuting in 2023 with his single “Ngengkhan,” quickly followed by a romantic track, “Thul’ubheke”. His third single,”Vula,” dropped in 2024.
