The ultimate guide to the best new music that launched 2026
Kold AF opens a new chapter with her single “Lost!”, revealing a vulnerable side that contrasts with her usual bold persona.
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January carries energy and reflection, and the music released now matches both moods.
As we enter February, these tracks offer soundtracks for vulnerability, celebration, faith and experimentation.
From introspective confessions to high-energy dance tracks, here’s what to add to your playlists before February begins.
“lost!” is a single that exposes a vulnerable side of the artist, often known for her defiance.
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“lost!” by Kold AF
Kold AF steps into a new chapter with “lost!”, a single that exposes a vulnerable side of the artist, often known for her defiance. The track explores internal struggles that come with ambition, growth and visibility.
“For the longest time, my mind has been feeling like my enemy, like the weapon fashioned against me,” Kold AF shared.
“This song is me confronting that tension and being honest about the emotional toll of chasing your dreams.”
The single shows her moving from bravado to self-reflection.
She said that it “captures the moments when you feel off balance but still push forward,” offering listeners a rare, personal glimpse behind her public persona.
“Bayathakatha” is a song full of hypnotic drums, bold chants and call-and-response vocals.
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“Bayathakatha” by Sphectacula & DJ Naves
On the other end of the spectrum, “Bayathakatha” is pure energy. Entertainment stars Sphectacula and DJ Naves team up with Dladla Mshunqisi, Beast RSA and rising talent Sazified for a track built for the streets, clubs and dance floors.
“This single is pure energy,” the duo said. “It’s about confidence, noise, presence and showing up fully - no matter who’s watching or talking. It’s for the streets, the dancers, the hustlers and everyone who lives loudly.”
The track’s hypnotic drums, bold chants and call-and-response vocals make it impossible to stay still, delivering the raw pulse of Durban’s gqom scene.
“Kubo Bonke” is a worship anthem about faith, unity and inclusion.
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Musa Yende offers reflection with “Kubo Bonke”, a worship anthem about faith, unity and inclusion.
Translated as “Above all”, the song carries a message of hope and grace.
“This song is a reminder that God’s love has no boundaries,” Yende said. “‘Kubo Bonke’ is a message of inclusion, healing and hope for every person, in every season.”
With soulful vocals and emotive lyrics, the track blends spiritual depth with accessibility, creating a meditative space for listeners to pause and reflect.
“Come Duze” explores reconnection, uncertainty and the question of giving love another chance.
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“Come Duze” by Naledi Aphiwe and Mawelele
Naledi Aphiwe and Mawelele close their long-running musical collaboration with “Come Duze”, a follow-up to their viral hit “Buya Ekhaya”.
The track explores reconnection, uncertainty and the question of giving love another chance.
“No Abiding City” by Dumama
Berlin-based South African composer Dumama (Gugulethu Duma) closes the list with “No Abiding City”, an electro-acoustic exploration of impermanence and belonging.
Using the uhadi bow alongside glitchy electronic rhythms, the track draws inspiration from an Xhosa Seventh-day Adventist hymn.
Produced by Nandi Ndlovu with additional work by Dion Monti, the song feels experimental yet rooted, inviting listeners to reflect as January comes to an end.