Africa’s biggest voices have come together to share South Africa’s vibrant 3-Step genre with the world, as they premiere the official music video for their hit single, “META” on Friday, 1st of November 2024 at 18:00. The dance track combines the powerful vocals of Nomcebo Zikode, the global reach of Fireboy DML (Nigeria), and Sofiya Nzau (Kenya)’s fresh East African influence, creating a fusion that is as culturally resonant as it is musically groundbreaking.
The music video for “META” underscores a dynamic new chapter in African music history. Against the iconic landscape of Soweto, the trio delivers a striking performance that captures the energy of 3-Step’s unique rhythm, blended with Afrobeats’ vibrancy and East Africa’s lyrical richness. Directed by acclaimed South African duo Bongani Tshabalala and Vuyo Mpantsha, the video brings a pulse to the song’s Pan-African vision, showcasing electrifying choreography and visuals that bridge South Africa’s culture with that of its neighbors.
Nomcebo Zikode: South Africa’s Voice Leading the Way
As the Grammy-winning artist behind the chart-topping hit “Jerusalema,” Nomcebo Zikode has once again positioned herself as an ambassador of South Africa’s sound, taking 3-Step beyond borders. Nomcebo’s influence as an artist who authentically captures the essence of South Africa’s culture, passion, and resilience comes alive in “META”. Her partnership with Fireboy DML and Sofiya Nzau on this track elevates 3-Step, a genre traditionally celebrated within South Africa, onto a global platform.
“3-Step is more than just a rhythm; it’s one of the stories that reflects who we are as South Africans,” Nomcebo shares. “Collaborating with Fireboy and Sofiya on this project has been a dream, and together we hope to share a piece of South Africa with the world, showing that African music is limitless in its power and reach.”
Fireboy DML’s First Foray into South African Music
“META” represents a monumental step for Fireboy DML, the Nigerian Afrobeats luminary known for the global hit “Peru”, who ventures into the world of 3-Step for the very first time. For Fireboy, whose career has been rooted in Nigeria’s fast-paced Afrobeats scene, the collaboration on “META” opens new avenues for cross-cultural exploration, as he skillfully navigates the syncopated beat of 3-Step, bringing his own unique energy and charisma to the track. This collaboration represents the unity and diversity that is redefining African music on a global stage.
Sofiya Nzau’s Voice Bridges East Africa with South Africa’s Sound
Kenyan rising star Sofiya Nzau, who has gained acclaim for her powerhouse vocal style, is no stranger to breaking boundaries. Known for her hit “Mwaki,” which took Kenya by storm and earned millions of streams worldwide, Sofiya’s presence in “META” adds an East African flavor, enriching the song’s Pan-African narrative. Singing in Swahili and Kikuyu, she infuses “META” with a voice that carries the resilience and spirit of East Africa.
Sofiya’s inclusion in the collaboration reflects the commitment of African artists to come together, celebrate their roots, and introduce the world to Africa’s diverse musical heritage. “It’s amazing to bring my East African roots into a song that has the power to unite us all,” says Sofiya. “META celebrates all that we are as Africans, and it’s an honor to share our music with the world.”
3-Step: South Africa’s Gift to the World
3-Step, an emerging genre within South Africa’s dynamic dance scene, is characterized by its three-count rhythm—a departure from the traditional four-count beat. Born in 2020 and championed by local innovators like Thakzin, 3-Step combines the bass-heavy influences of amapiano, Afro-tech, and broken beat, creating a genre that invites listeners into an immersive auditory experience. With co-signs from global tastemakers like Kaytranada, 3-Step is making waves across African music scenes, while “META” gives it the boost needed to reach a broader, global audience.
In the “META” music video, vibrant choreography designed by Zoyi Muendane and Eugene Baloyi adds visual depth to the song’s rhythmic heartbeat, embodying the spirit of South Africa’s dance culture and drawing viewers into the 3-Step experience. The seamless interplay between Nomcebo’s powerful vocals, Fireboy’s melodic energy, and Sofiya’s emotional depth gives 3-Step a new dimension, making it accessible and exciting for listeners around the world.
Main Image: Supplied