Eastern Cape — Siyabulela Skelem, better known by his stage name Skelem, is not just a music artist—he’s a movement. Hailing from Uitenhage, now part of Gqeberha, Skelem has carved out a unique space in South Africa’s creative landscape, blending music, storytelling, and digital charisma into a brand that resonates deeply with fans across the country.
The Rise of Skelem: From EPs to Viral FameSkelem’s journey began with the release of his debut EP 24SE7 in 2018, a raw and lyrical showcase of township life and hustle. Since then, he’s been affiliated with the Mello Agency and has become a regular performer at events throughout the Eastern Cape.
But it’s not just his music that’s made him a household name—it’s his storytelling.His Storytime series, delivered in isiXhosa and often punctuated with the phrase “Mr Masimphe Igama”, has gone viral on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. These short, humorous tales reflect the everyday realities of township life, told with wit, warmth, and authenticity.
New Project: Letter to Jambase This month, Skelem is set to release his most ambitious project yet—Letter to Jambase, an 11-track album that blends kwaito, hip-hop, and Afro-fusion. While he’s often labeled a kwaito artist, Skelem proudly embraces his versatility. “I do other genres because I’m a versatile artist,” he says, and this project proves it.
Two singles from the album named Hanana are dropping this week. Both tracks are named after stories from his Storytime series and serve as a tribute to the fans who’ve supported him from day one. “These songs are for my people,” Skelem shares, “to appreciate those who love me for my storytelling and music artwork.”
Digital Impact & Cultural Influence Skelem’s content consistently draws high engagement, with thousands of views, shares, and comments. His ability to connect with audiences through humor and honesty has made him more than just an entertainer—he’s a cultural voice for Gqeberha and beyond.
Whether he’s performing live, dropping new music, or sharing a story that makes you laugh until you cry, Skelem’s work is rooted in community, creativity, and pride. His visuals, sound design, and animated storytelling continue to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of artists.
From Local Legend to National Icon Skelem’s journey from the streets of Uitenhage to the digital stages of South Africa is a testament to the power of authenticity.
With Letter to Jambase, he’s not just releasing music—he’s telling a story, building a legacy, and reminding us that local voices can have global impact.
Watch this space. Skelem’s story is far from over—and the next chapter is just beginning.
Siyanda Ngqayimbana A.K.A. Da blaq Bull: From the Streets of Makhaza to Global Hip Hop Recognition
Siyanda Ngqayimbana, also known as Da blaq Bull, is an emerging hip-hop sensation whose journey from the vibrant streets of Makhaza to the global music stage is capturing hearts and turning heads. Born and raised in the heart of 37sec Ghost Town, Siyanda’s narrative is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Siyanda’s love affair with rap began in 2014 while growing up in Site B, Khayelitsha. At the time, he was not yet recording his tracks, instead opting to express his lyrical prowess through freestyle videos captured on his phone. It wasn’t until he moved back to Makhaza in 2017 that Siyanda’s latent passion for music found fertile ground. In an environment where his friends weren’t particularly attuned to the hip-hop genre, Siyanda’s determination to create music was unyielding. He remained focused on his studies until the call of the craft could no longer be ignored.
A turning point came in Grade 10 when Siyanda’s ardor for writing and rapping was rekindled. A chance Facebook post seeking a studio in Makhaza led him to an encounter with fellow recording artist Nasy C Alta. This meeting marked the inception of Siyanda’s professional music journey. Under Nasy C Alta’s guidance, Siyanda recorded his first track, “Bombay,” produced by SO Deno which rapidly gained viral traction within his community. The track’s success not only established Siyanda as a force to be reckoned with but also ignited a fervor for musical expression that couldn’t be contained.
Siyanda’s trajectory skyrocketed when he collaborated with fellow Cape Town artists Mossi l Bay and Cynth Kid on “Ithongo Lemambs,” a collaboration that etched his name into the very fabric of Cape Town’s hip-hop scene. His international footprint expanded further with the release of “War Ready,” a collaboration with American artist Mizzy Hendrix . This transcontinental collaboration was a testament to Siyanda’s cross-cultural appeal, capturing the attention of listeners across digital platforms.
However, the journey was not without its obstacles. As the studio where he had been recording closed its doors, Siyanda’s musical momentum came to a temporary halt. But in 2023, a stroke of luck revitalized his journey. With the support of a neighbor who happened to be a recording artist armed with a laptop, Siyanda produced his latest track, “Testimony.” A song initially written in 2022, “Testimony” encapsulates Siyanda’s resilience and his unrelenting spirit to keep creating despite the odds.
Mark your calendars for September 20th as Siyanda Da Bull drops “Testimony” across all digital platforms. The release promises to be a testament not only to his growth as an artist but also to his dedication to his craft.
Siyanda Da Bull also has thrilling collaborations on the horizon. With a forthcoming track featuring the talented American artist Moonraq, alongside Mizzy Hedrix, Siyanda’s influence is poised to transcend borders. Furthermore, a collaboration with Rap God and kill Kris’s , another exceptional American artist, is also in the works, promising a musical experience that bridges continents.
Siyanda Da Bull Ngqayimbana’s journey is an ode to the resilience and passion of Africa’s rising hip-hop stars. His relentless drive and unwavering belief in his artistry continue to shape his path to greatness. As Siyanda continues to amplify his presence on the global music stage, he remains an inspiration to aspiring artists across the world.
