EThekwini Municipality Celebrates Durban’s Rising Star Dlala Thukzin Ahead of 2025 BET Awards
EThekwini Municipality recently took to social media to shine a spotlight on one of Durban’s brightest musical talents, Dlala Thukzin. In a heartfelt moment captured in photos shared online, Mayor Cllr. Cyril Xaba met with the rising star to extend his congratulations and best wishes as Thukzin prepares to represent South Africa on the global stage at the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles. “As good luck messages continue to pour in, we proudly stand behind Thukzin on his BET Awards nomination journey,” read the municipality’s supportive post.
Dlala Thukzin, whose real name is Thuthuka Zindlovu, expressed his heartfelt appreciation in response to the overwhelming support from fans and officials alike. “I’m humbled ❤️🙏🏽,” he wrote, capturing the emotional weight of representing Durban and South Africa on such a prestigious platform.
Dlala Thukzin is nominated for the coveted Best New International Act at the 2025 BET Awards. He faces stiff competition from an impressive lineup of global artists including Abigail Chams from Tanzania, Ajuliacosta and Amabbi from Brazil, Dr Yaro from France, KWN and Odeal from the United Kingdom, Maglera Doe Boy and TxC from South Africa, Merveille from France, and Shallipopi from Nigeria. This nomination firmly places Thukzin among the world’s emerging musical talents and highlights the growing global influence of South African music.
Born in 1997 in Lamontville, Durban, Thuthuka Zindlovu’s journey to international acclaim is a story of passion and innovation. A versatile DJ and producer, he skillfully blends the sounds of afrotech, gqom, and amapiano — genres that have become synonymous with South Africa’s vibrant music scene. Thukzin’s passion for music ignited early, inspired by assisting his DJ uncle with sound equipment. His breakthrough came as a producer on Babes Wodumo’s 2016 album Gqom Queen, Vol. 1, a release that helped propel the gqom genre to national prominence.
In 2021, his amapiano-infused single Phuze brought him further acclaim, solidifying his reputation for fusing genres to create a unique sound. His notable projects include Permanent Music (2020), Finally Famous (2022), and Permanent Music 3 (2023), which features the 2x Platinum hit iPlan. Dlala Thukzin’s discography boasts several fan favourites that have become anthems in South Africa, such as iPlan (feat. Zaba & Sykes), Phuze (feat. Zaba), Muthi (feat. Zeh McGeba & Masuda), and Sohlala Sisonke (feat. Zeh McGeba & MK Productions). These tracks showcase his versatility and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
The 25th BET Awards, themed “Culture’s Biggest Night,” will be broadcast live on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, the ceremony promises electrifying performances from stars like Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, GloRilla, Playboi Carti, and Leon Thomas. In addition to the competitive awards, the event will honour legendary artists including Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg with Ultimate Icon Awards. Fans will also enjoy a special 25th-anniversary tribute to 106 & Park, featuring appearances from former hosts and nostalgic performances by Bow Wow, B2K, Mya, and others.
The show will air live on BET, with pre-event festivities taking place during the BET Experience 2025 (BETX) from June 7–8 in Los Angeles. BETX offers immersive fan activations and exclusive opportunities for music lovers to engage with artists and the culture.
As Dlala Thukzin steps onto this international platform, the city of Durban and the broader South African music community celebrate a homegrown talent who is making significant waves worldwide. His journey from the streets of Lamontville to the BET Awards stage is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the global reach of South African music. With the eyes of the world watching, Thukzin’s BET Awards nomination not only shines a light on his career but also proudly represents Durban’s thriving cultural landscape. The support from EThekwini Municipality and fans alike underscores the collective pride in this rising star’s success.
