Afrotainment Introduces SunOrnza: The Fierce New Duo Redefining Gqom
Afrotainment, the powerhouse South African label that launched the careers of DJ Tira and Big Nuz, has officially introduced its latest signing—SunOrnza, a groundbreaking Gqom duo ready to shake up the genre with bold energy and unstoppable ambition.
SunOrnza’s self-titled debut EP is already igniting excitement in the local music scene. Loud, energetic, and unapologetically feminine, the project signals a powerful shift in Gqom, a genre that has traditionally been dominated by male artists. The duo’s fearless sound and sharp identity are breathing new life into Durban’s signature beat, pushing the genre into dynamic new territory.
The EP features an impressive lineup of collaborators that reads like a who’s who of the Gqom world. DJ Tira, Captain, Campmasters, EMZA, Assiye Bongzin, Naked Souls, BenTen, Bhuwa G, and Naitor all lend their talents, helping shape a sound that is both high-energy and rich in texture. These collaborations enhance SunOrnza’s voice rather than overshadow it, allowing their fierce attitude and lyrical power to stand front and centre.
The SunOrnza EP includes five high-impact tracks that reflect the duo’s creative versatility:
Official SUNORNZA EP Tracklist
- Ama Dollar – SunOrnza, Captain, Emza, Assiye, Bongzin & Naitor
- Makoti Ekhishini – Sunshine, Captain, DJ Tira, Bhuwa G, Campmasters & Naitor
- Drip Drip – Ornica & BenTen
- Cheers – SunOrnza, Captain & Campmasters
- Iskeem – SunOrnza, DJ Tira, Assiye, Bongzin & Naked Souls
What makes this duo particularly captivating is their ability to thrive both together and individually. On tracks like Makoti Ekhishini and Drip Drip, Sunshine and Ornica appear separately—Sunshine steps out on Makoti Ekhishini while Ornica takes the lead on Drip Drip. It’s a subtle but impactful statement: each artist has her own fire, and together, they burn even brighter.
More than just party anthems, these tracks carry meaning. Songs like Makoti Ekhishini are layered with empowering messages, challenging gender norms and reclaiming feminine narratives through music. SunOrnza brings substance to the rhythm, showing that Gqom can carry messages as powerful as its beats.
Firmly rooted in Durban’s street culture, SunOrnza represents a proudly South African identity. From the raw pulse of their sound to their street-smart lyrics, the EP is a celebration of Gqom’s origins and an exploration of where it can go. They aren’t simply representing Durban—they’re elevating it on a national and global scale.
Their debut hasn’t gone unnoticed. With early support from Gagasi FM and co-signs from influential players in the scene, SunOrnza is already gaining traction. Their visual campaign is equally compelling, matching the bold aesthetic of their music and reinforcing the duo’s brand as trendsetters and rule-breakers.
SunOrnza isn’t here to blend in—they’re here to stand out. With fearless energy, powerful lyrics, and a sound rooted in both identity and innovation, they’re not just the future of Gqom—they’re its revolution. Afrotainment has once again struck gold, and South Africa is watching as this duo leads the genre into its next explosive chapter.
