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South Africa
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Ayabonga Zuma, professionally known as Sykes, is a South African singer, songwriter, and versatile musical artist who has become one of the most exciting voices in contemporary South African music. Born and raised in Durban, KwaZulu‑Natal, he showed musical promise early, learning piano at age five and performing in church bands by age nine.
His professional career took off in 2023, when a social‑media freestyle of his unreleased track “Sisekakeni Babies” went viral, prompting him to move to Johannesburg to pursue music full‑time. That year, he gained national prominence as a featured vocalist on Dlala Thukzin’s “iPlan,” a chart‑topping hit that achieved double platinum status and became one of the defining songs of the year.
In late 2023, Sykes released his debut EP “Most Wanted,” blending Afro‑Tech, Gqom, and Amapiano influences. He followed with standout singles including “uMA weNGANE,” and “Awukwazi.” He also contributed vocals to collaborative tracks with leading artists like Kabza De Small and Dlala Thukzin.
Sykes won “Best Live Act” at the 2025 South African Dance Music Awards. His work on “iPlan” also earned multiple nominations at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs), including Record of the Year.
After parting ways with Emazulwini Productions to become an independent artist, Sykes embraced greater creative freedom and continues to push musical boundaries. Today, he is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and influential performers in South Africa’s modern music landscape.