On June 19, 2025, Afrotainment, the legendary South African record label behind stars like DJ Tira and Big Nuz, announced the signing of SunOrnza, a groundbreaking gqom duo poised to breathe new life into the genre. The announcement, shared via a post on X by @thejournalistdj, has sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders, who see SunOrnza as the next chapter in gqom’s evolution. This move underscores Afrotainment’s commitment to nurturing innovative talent and preserving the cultural significance of gqom, a genre born in the townships of Durban.
SunOrnza, comprised of two young producers from KwaZulu-Natal, brings a fresh perspective to gqom, blending its signature heavy basslines and syncopated rhythms with contemporary electronic influences. Their debut single, teased in the announcement, features hypnotic beats and raw energy, reminiscent of early gqom pioneers like DJ Lag and Rudeboyz, yet distinctly modern. “SunOrnza represents the future of gqom while honoring its roots,” said DJ Tira, Afrotainment’s founder, in a statement to Music in Africa. “Their sound is unapologetically South African, but it’s ready for global stages.”
Gqom, which emerged in the early 2010s, became a global phenomenon, influencing electronic music scenes in Europe and beyond. However, in recent years, the genre has faced challenges as amapiano and Afrobeat have dominated South African airwaves. Afrotainment’s investment in SunOrnza signals a renewed focus on gqom, aligning with recent trends highlighted by Spotify, which reported a 3,000% increase in maskandi and gqom playlist streams, as noted in a post by @ThatEricAlper on June 21, 2025. This resurgence suggests that gqom is reclaiming its place in South Africa’s musical landscape.
SunOrnza’s signing comes at a pivotal moment for Afrotainment, which has been a cornerstone of Durban’s music scene for over a decade. The label’s track record of launching careers gives SunOrnza a strong platform to reach audiences both locally and internationally. Industry analysts predict that the duo’s unique sound could appeal to festival circuits like Tomorrowland and Coachella, where African electronic music is gaining traction. Their upcoming EP, set for release later in 2025, is already generating buzz, with collaborations rumored to include established gqom artists.
For fans, SunOrnza’s arrival is a nostalgic yet forward-looking moment. Social media reactions on X highlight the duo’s potential to “bring back the real gqom vibe” while pushing boundaries. As they prepare for their debut under Afrotainment, SunOrnza is poised to carry the torch for gqom, proving that the genre’s raw, pulsating spirit remains a vital force in South African music.
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