Nanette Solidifies Her Place as a Modern R&B Trailblazer in South Africa

At just 22, South African singer Nanette continues to redefine modern R&B with her latest work. Her new single, Abazali, from the album Painfully Happy, pays tribute to her parents and the music icons who influenced her sound.

The album draws heavily on nostalgia, inspired by legendary performers like Miriam Makeba and Brenda Fassie. “I would’ve loved to see Miriam Makeba or Brenda Fassie in their prime. Both had a larger-than-life presence that went beyond music. Brenda’s fire and Miriam’s grace carried the spirit of a generation. Being in the crowd, feeling that energy live, would be unforgettable,” Nanette said.

Her musical foundation comes from her childhood home. Luther Vandross’ Dance With My Father played repeatedly, shaping her understanding of music as tender and healing. “It taught me that music could hold both love and loss at the same time,” she added.

Painfully Happy explores the coexistence of joy and sorrow. Nanette explains that her previous project, The Waiting Room, highlighted this tension. “I was excited about releasing that project while grieving my aunt. That clash of emotions is central to Painfully Happy – how joy and sadness exist side by side, and how we carry both at once.”

Tracks like I’m Not Psycho reveal multiple sides of her artistry. She balances bold, rebellious energy with grounded, family-oriented moments. “Some days I’m the bold, rebellious Harley Quinn energy, and other days I’m grounded in my family and culture. Music is the space where I allow all of those layers to live together,” she said.

Singing in Xhosa and Zulu adds depth and personal resonance. Nanette believes her mother tongue captures emotion and culture in ways English cannot. “Language holds memory and emotion. When I sing in Xhosa and Zulu, I unlock a part of myself that English can’t always capture,” she explained.

Family reactions to Abazali reflect the song’s personal impact. Her father described it as a hit and praised her growth. Her mother shared similar pride. “Hearing that from them was everything, because the song is literally a thank you to them,” Nanette said.

Collaborations have been key to Nanette’s rise. She has worked with Kelvin Momo, Emtee, DJ Maphorisa, DBN Gogo, Tellaman, lordkez, and Blxckie. Her dream collaboration is with Letta Mbuli. “Her voice and presence are iconic, and she carries wisdom in her artistry. Having her on a track would feel like connecting the past with the present – building a bridge between generations of music,” Nanette said.

With Painfully Happy, Nanette cements her status as a sonic architect, blending modern R&B with South African heritage while honoring the artists who came before her. Her music remains a space for emotion, storytelling, and connection.