From Pioneer to Powerhouse: Oskido’s “NEXT GEN” Champions the Future of SA Music

Oscar Sibonginkosi “Oskido” Mdlongwa, a name synonymous with South African musical excellence, is not just riding the wave of change, he’s the tide itself. With a career spanning more than 26 years, Oskido has remained an unwavering force in shaping the nation’s soundscape. From being a Kwaito trailblazer to co-founding Kalawa Jazmee Records, home to icons like Mafikizolo and Bongo Maffin, he’s etched his influence deep into the annals of African pop culture.

Oskido is poised to remind the world why he remains one of the most innovative legend in music with his forthcoming project, “NEXT GEN,” dropping June 6th.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by oskidoibelieve (@oskidoibelieve)

The upcoming album is positioned as more than just a music release, it’s a ceremonial passing of the torch, “Album DONE! NEXT GEN drops 6th June 2025!” he captioned, hinting at a journey rooted in mentorship and renewal. The project is a full-fledged project with South Africa’s freshest and most promising talents, an intergenerational dialogue sculpted in melody and rhythm.

In the studio footage, Oskido is seen vibing and working closely with Leandra.Vert, whose vocal range brings a soulful precision; Tshepo Mngoma, a violinist and composer whose presence adds classical gravitas; and Banele Masina, whose raw artistry promises to shake the status quo. The studio energy is electric, organic, intentional, and brimming with synergy. It’s a glimpse into a creative process that prioritises authenticity while pushing boundaries.

From Kwaito to Amapiano—A Legacy of Innovation

Oskido’s ability to adapt, evolve, and influence cannot be overstated. In the 1990s, he helped shape and export the sound of Kwaito beyond township borders. In the decades since, he has been a driving force behind Afro-house, and more recently, a supporter and contributor to Amapiano, South Africa’s globally loved genre that fuses jazz, deep house, and local grooves into one infectious movement.

By leaning into the Amapiano sound and surrounding himself with the next generation of creatives, Oskido once again proves his relevance is not anchored in nostalgia, but in reinvention. “NEXT GEN” is a time capsule that acknowledges the past while firmly planting itself in the future.

Beyond music , Oskido’s commitment to uplifting young talent defines his enduring legacy. “NEXT GEN” isn’t just about showcasing new faces; it’s about platforming untold stories, offering mentorship, and expanding the horizons for what South African music can be.

As the countdown to June 6th begins, the anticipation builds. “NEXT GEN” is already being viewed as one of the most culturally significant releases of the year, a vibrant intersection of tradition and innovation.