South African R&B singer and songwriter Lusanda Ngcobo, who performs as Lusanda, has been chosen as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Artist for September 2026.
The EQUAL Africa initiative works to raise the profile of women artists across the continent, helping their music reach audiences in Africa and international markets.
Spotify Singles first#
The selection follows Lusanda’s appearance in Spotify Singles, where she became the first South African woman artist to take part in the programme.
For that release, she recorded a stripped-back version of Gary Jules’ interpretation of Tears for Fears’ “Mad World,” with an arrangement that highlights her vocal delivery.
“We’re excited to spotlight Lusanda again this September and help introduce her music to even more listeners around the world,” Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, said. “Her journey speaks to the depth of women talent emerging from the continent – a striking and individual voice that her growing fanbase loves.”
Forthcoming EP#
Lusanda’s first connection with Spotify came through her debut pop single, “When You’re Around,” which was supported by the Fresh Finds Africa programme for emerging independent artists.
Her later work has blended R&B, pop and contemporary sounds while keeping an intimate vocal style.
The EQUAL Africa recognition arrives before the release of her EP, By The Time I Wake Up, on 11 September 2026. The title track is already out as her latest single.
Lusanda said the programme has been central to several career milestones.
“It goes without saying that EQUAL has helped create some significant milestones for me. My first full sets on stage in Johannesburg happened thanks to the programme, and it’s also the reason I got to record a Spotify Singles! Those have been real turning points for me. Our industry needs more EQUALs that don’t just use the language of supporting us, but actually put their resources behind women artists,” she said.
