Ukhozi FM Announces Top 20 Songs for 2025 Song of the Year Countdown

Ukhozi FM has released the list of songs eligible for its highly anticipated Top 20 countdown, which will culminate in the announcement of the Song of the Year on New Year’s Eve. Since 1995, the station has celebrated this annual tradition, giving listeners across South Africa a chance to choose the track that will close the year.

The countdown has become a national event, generating excitement as fans debate which song will dominate the final moments before the new year. In recent years, Maskandi music has gained prominence in the competition, sparking debates and controversy among listeners. Allegations of unfair favouritism and bribery have often targeted popular Maskandi artists Khuzani and Mthandeni, creating tension around the Song of the Year announcement.

Last year, Mthandeni and Mawhoo’s song “Gucci” won, earning widespread approval among Maskandi fans. This year, however, Ukhozi FM excluded both Khuzani and Mthandeni from the competition, leading fans to expect a fairer and more balanced voting process.

The station introduced a new voting system, presenting listeners with a top 20 list of songs. Fans were then asked to vote for their top ten favourites. Ukhozi FM presenter Khathide ‘Tshatha’ Ngobe revealed the top ten songs during his afternoon drive show, setting the stage for final voting.

Listeners can vote for their favourite track by sending an SMS with the word “INGOMA” followed by the corresponding letter (A-J) to 32253. Voting will close on December 31 at 12 PM.

The Top 10 Songs for 2025 are:
Song A: Mamma – Skillz ft Zee and Svkes
Song B: Shela – Sam Deep, Nia Pearl, Boohle, Mano
Song C: Mali – Zee Nxumalo & Dlala Thukzin
Song D: uMa wengane – Jazzworx, Thukuthela
Song E: Bengicela – MaWhoo ft GL_Ceeiav, Thukuthela and Jazzwrld
Song F: Uyoncengwa Unyoko – Umafikizolo
Song G: Isaka – Ciza ft. Jazzworx, Thukuthela
Song H: Uyena – Sjava
Song I: Order – Professor & Larny
Song J: Awungazi – DJ Tira, Pcee & Campmasters ft General C’mamane

Despite the changes, fans believe that Mafikizolo’s “Uyoncengwa Unyoko” has strong chances of being crowned Song of the Year. The 2025 countdown promises to be competitive, reflecting both the diversity and evolving tastes in South African music.