Umafikizolo’s TikTok-driven Maskandi hit earns Song of the Year at Metro FM Awards

Umafikizolo has secured a major milestone in South African music after winning Song of the Year at the 2026 Metro FM Music Awards, held at the Durban ICC. His track “Uyoncengwa Unyoko”, which first gained traction on social media, has become one of the standout hits to successfully move from viral status into mainstream recognition.

Released in mid-2025, the song quickly picked up momentum on TikTok, where it was widely used in dance challenges and short-form content. This digital popularity translated into strong streaming numbers, with the track breaking records for daily streams by a South African solo artist on Spotify and surpassing 14 million streams within a few months.

Beyond its online success, the song resonated with listeners because of its message. The title, loosely translated as “You will be begged by your mother”, flips the usual narrative of heartbreak. Instead of pleading for love, the lyrics emphasise self-respect and emotional independence. The standout line, “Ngeke ngikuncenge mina, uyoncengwa unyoko,” reinforces this stance, giving the song a bold and relatable edge.

During his acceptance speech, Umafikizolo thanked supporters and reflected on his journey, expressing a heartfelt wish that his mother could witness his success. His win highlights not only his personal rise but also the growing influence of digital platforms in shaping the local music industry.

Hailing from Mnambithi in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Umafikizolo represents a new generation of Maskandi artists blending traditional sounds with modern melodies. His achievement signals a shift in how local genres can reach wider audiences, bridging cultural roots with contemporary appeal and showing how viral moments can translate into lasting industry recognition.