South African jazz artist Nokuthula Fundama has been nominated for Jazz Artist of the Year at the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards. The nomination recognizes her song Wothini Na, a track that blends jazz with traditional African sounds.
Fundama, who hails from Kwa-Thema in Ekurhuleni, described the nomination as a meaningful validation of her years of work as an independent musician. She said the recognition confirms that staying true to her artistic vision has been worthwhile.
Nomination for ‘Wothini Na’
The nominated song, Wothini Na, encourages listeners to reflect on their life choices and remain authentic despite external pressures. Fundama explained that the track merges jazz with African musical traditions, creating a sound that honors cultural heritage while embracing contemporary influences.
She views the nomination as a shared achievement with the community that has supported her career. The Basadi in Music Awards celebrate the contributions of women in the South African music industry.
Artistic Roots in Kwa-Thema
Fundama credits her upbringing in the township of Kwa-Thema for shaping her resilience and artistic direction. She said her experiences there taught her the value of community and storytelling, which now form the foundation of her songwriting.
Beyond singing, Fundama works as a poet, songwriter and composer. She aims to create music that heals, educates and preserves cultural traditions, rather than chasing commercial trends.
Jazz as a Storytelling Medium
Despite jazz not being the most commercially dominant genre in South Africa, Fundama remains committed to it. She said jazz gives her the creative freedom to tell meaningful stories while staying true to her African identity.
To attract younger audiences, she advocates for introducing jazz through schools, community programs and digital platforms. She also believes collaborations with artists from other genres can broaden its appeal without diluting its core identity.
Looking Ahead
Fundama considers the nomination a victory regardless of the outcome. She hopes her journey inspires young women, especially those from townships like Kwa-Thema, to pursue their dreams with determination and authenticity.
She plans to continue creating music, collaborating with other artists and performing on international stages as she expands her career beyond South Africa.
