Side Step, South Africa's leading destination for fashion, youth culture and music, hosted an exclusive Usimamane x Playboy Clubhouse Album Listening Session at Side Step Rosebank Mall on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, bringing together media, influencers, industry tastemakers and fellow artists for an intimate first listen to some of the country's most anticipated new music.
The event forms part of the recently launched Playboy Clubhouse: Powered by Usimamane campaign, an integrated cultural platform that celebrates the intersection of fashion, music, creativity and self-expression. The campaign follows the announcement of South African rap sensation and cultural trailblazer Usimamane as Playboy's official ambassador in South Africa.
Hosted by media personality Thaba Nyaba, the evening offered guests an exclusive conversation with Usimamane, providing unique insight into the creative process behind his upcoming sophomore album. Throughout the session, attendees were treated to a sneak preview of six unreleased tracks, accompanied by personal stories and reflections from the artist on the inspiration behind the music.
The forthcoming album, set for release within the next month, marks Usimamane's first full-length project in two years and represents a significant evolution in his artistry.
Speaking during the event, Usimamane shared that considerable time, thought and intention went into the creation of the album, with numerous tracks ultimately left off the final project to ensure the strongest body of work possible.
Fans can expect a more personal and vulnerable side of the artist, with themes exploring life's highs and lows, personal growth, love, loss and resilience. The project also showcases Usimamane's continued rise on the global stage through collaborations with both local and international artists.
Featured collaborators on the album include Zawadi, Loe Shimmy, Emtee, Blxckie and Jacquees, reflecting a diverse blend of sounds and influences that push the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop and African music culture.
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The Listening Session also marked another milestone in Side Step's growing commitment to supporting music culture and creating meaningful experiences for South African youth. Earlier this year, Side Step hosted a successful listening session with Blxckie at Side Step Clearwater Mall, further cementing the retailer's position at the forefront of fashion and music culture.
As excitement builds ahead of the album's official release, the exclusive listening session provided an unforgettable first glimpse into Usimamane's next chapter, bringing fans, media and industry leaders closer to the music before anyone else.
About Playboy Clubhouse: Powered by Usimamane
Playboy Clubhouse: Powered by Usimamane is an integrated campaign celebrating individuality, self-expression and youth culture through fashion, music and exclusive experiences. Headlined by Playboy South Africa ambassador Usimamane, the platform brings together creators, artists and fans through curated cultural moments designed to inspire a new generation.
About Side Step
Side Step is one of South Africa's leading branded fashion and sneaker retailers, offering consumers access to the world's most sought-after sportswear, streetwear and lifestyle brands. Through music, fashion and culture-led experiences, Side Step continues to champion the voices and creativity shaping contemporary South African youth culture.
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