South Africa’s dancefloor queen, TDK Macassette, is back with a high-octane anthem, “Sorry Makhe”. This time, she’s not just here to get the party started—she’s making a statement. With a fiery collaboration featuring Amapiano rising stars Fluxx and Turnupkiid, and Gqom heavyweight Mr Nation Thingz, “Sorry Makhe” is more than a single. Essentially, it’s a fusion of two of South Africa’s most beloved genres—Gqom and Amapiano—and a celebration of rhythm, energy, and unapologetic joy. “It’s that kind of weekend song,” TDK says. “The kind that gets you moving without even realizing it.”
As an independent artist, she’s leveled up. Partnering with global powerhouse Empire, she’s extending her reach beyond South Africa’s borders—firmly planting her stiletto in the global Amapiano takeover. Known offstage as Thandeka Nompumelelo Mkhwanazi, TDK is more than a performer—she’s a multi-hyphenate powerhouse. Dancer, singer, radio host, and media personality, her break came not behind the mic, but behind the scenes—while offering corporate services to DJ Maphorisa. Naturally, that connection sparked her debut single “Left Right” in 2019, a track that marked the beginning of her musical chapter.
We chatted with her about the catchy vibe behind her new single, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and what it really means to follow your calling.
If you could only dance to one song for the rest of your life, which one would it be and why?
“Left right”, my 2019 hit.
You’re known for your infectious energy on stage! Have you ever had a funny or unexpected moment during a live performance?
When my wig fell off, but I still continued to perform and give a good show.
Many people know TDK Macassette, the performer, but what’s something about you that fans might be surprised to learn?
I don’t like going out specifically if I’m not working. I’m such a homebody kinda girl.
Before you stepped into the music scene, what was your background like? Did you always know entertainment was your calling, or did life take you on a few unexpected detours?
I did not think about being a musician much, but I always knew I wanted to work in an industry where music and dance were the focus.
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‘Domoroza’ was a game-changer for your career. How did life change for you after its success, and what was the most unexpected lesson you learned from that journey?
The change was having my career elevate. My lessons learned are to always stay humble and respect my fans. They are the ones elevating my career with their undying support.
Obviously, the house and amapiano scenes are often male-dominated. How have you navigated these spaces and ensured that your voice and presence stand out?
Staying in my lane and trying to strive in what I am good at gives me peace of mind about how I present my music in the genre.
You’ve been vocal about empowering women in the industry. What advice would you give to young female artists trying to break into the dance and house music world?
We need love and support one another. Your win is my win, and vice versa. It is important to stay welcoming to one another. To me, that’s the reason why men in the industry always win. Mostly, it is because they stick together and support one another all the way.
Let’s talk about ‘Sorry Makhe’—what was the inspiration behind this song, and how does it differ from your previous hits?
I love song-alongs. This track is still the same vibey, gimmicky, and catchy sound that I am known for. I am scaling up and sharing the vibe far and wide.
When you’re creating a new song, do you start with the beat, the lyrics, or the vibe?
I start with the beat. Create a chilled atmosphere that inspires singing whatever comes to mind. Afterwards, my collaborators and I listen to other beats then go back to the first with creative juices. Before you know it, the studio now becomes a vibe from which a hit is created.
Amapiano has taken the world by storm! What excites you the most about its growing global influence, and where do you see it going next?
It has and for me, it really has moved me to the next step from where I was a few years ago. What’s exciting is that Amapiano doesn’t have a limit. One minute you in SA, the next you rubbing shoulders with your icons of the world.
If you could change one thing about the music industry for a day, what would it be and why?
Let’s just respect our brands because, besides the music, your brand is your jackpot.
TDK Macassette isn’t just making hits—she’s part of a cultural shift. Amapiano, once a local street sound, is now a global movement. According to the IFPI’s Global Music Report 2024, Amapiano is one of the fastest-growing genres in the world, with streams growing by over 100% year-on-year outside Africa. South African artists are now regulars on global charts, festival stages, and viral TikTok challenges.
What’s more impressive? Women like TDK are claiming their space in a scene often dominated by male DJs and producers. Ultimately, in a genre built on collaboration and community, she’s proving that sisterhood, style, and staying true to your roots are keys to long-term success.
You balance singing, dancing, and being a full-on entertainer. Which part of your artistry feels the most natural to you, and which one challenges you the most?
Just being a full-on entertainer is a major challenge. However, I do my best to bring the best energy and do what is natural to me.
If you could collaborate with any artist—local or international—on your next big song, who would it be and why?
Wizkid
Which artist, whether local or international, dead or alive, has had the biggest impact on your creativity and artistic journey?
Lebo Mathosa
The right outfit can make or break a performance! What’s your ultimate go-to stage fit that makes you feel powerful and ready to own the stage?
I really don’t have a specific one. I just “rock”.
In the fast-paced world of music, artists constantly evolve. So, how do you see TDK Macassette growing in the next few years, both musically and personally?
“Crazy”. In more collaborations, locally and internationally. In fashion spaces, working with brands and building my very own line in collaboration with XYZ.
Finally, what’s one message you’d love your fans to take away from your music and your journey?
Follow your calling. Don’t stop pushing forward and moving, small or big! Just move forward.
Whether it’s through her dance-driven performances, bold style, or fearless fusion of genres, TDK Macassette is helping shape the sound of a generation. Fortunately, as Amapiano’s global reach continues to explode—streaming numbers soared by more than 100% globally last year, according to the IFPI—women like TDK are breaking down doors and setting dancefloors on fire. Therefore, with “Sorry Makhe”, she’s not just dropping a hit—she’s planting a flag. Therefore, if her journey so far is any clue, the best is yet to come.
Stream “Sorry Makhe” now. Available on all streaming platforms.
