As Women’s Month graces Cape Town, it’s the perfect time to spotlight the city’s diverse and talented women musicians who have been creating sounds that resonate far beyond their homes.
In a world of ever-expanding musical genres, exploring the offerings of women artists in Cape Town isn’t just a celebration of their talent; it’s an invitation to broaden our musical horizons.
Beyond the melodies and rhythms, it’s essential to acknowledge the identities of the artists who shape our auditory experiences. Taking the time to listen to their creations is a way of acknowledging the profound impact women have had on music and the significance of embracing a multitude of voices.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Enjoy a 60-minute cruise for one person in Cape Town for only R155. Get it here.
Here are five such musicians you should listen to:
1. Dope Saint Jude
Catherine Saint Jude Pretorius, known by her stage name Dope Saint Jude, is a multifaceted South African artist, encompassing roles as a rapper, singer, songwriter and music producer. Born in Cape Town and raised in Elsies River, her journey began with a self-taught skill on the guitar at the age of 12.
Renowned for her unique brand of hip hop, Dope Saint Jude’s creations serve as a musical backdrop resonating with themes of feminist inclusivity and empowerment, along with an innovative queer dimension to the hip hop realm.
Starting as a drag king named Saint Dude, she led the formation of South Africa’s inaugural documented drag king troupe in 2011. The subsequent years witnessed her transition into a compelling solo artist, marked by impactful collaborations, self-produced EPs and notable performances.
2.Paxton Fielies
Paxton Fielies, widely known as Paxton, is a gifted South African singer and songwriter. Born in Bishop Lavis, Cape Town, Paxton’s musical journey ignited at a young age when she joined the New Apostolic Church children’s choir.
Her musical passion blossomed when she started sharing covers of popular songs on social media, gaining attention for her rendition of Sam Smith’s Lay Me Down. In 2017, Paxton skyrocketed to fame by winning the 13th season of Idols South Africa, becoming the youngest South African woman to claim the title.
With her unique blend of Afro-Pop, Paxton’s music resonates deeply, and her album This Is Me garnered praise for its genre-spanning influences.
Also read: 5 Capetonian women writers to celebrate this Women’s Month
3. Melanie Scholtz
Melanie Scholtz is a multifaceted artist – a jazz singer, composer, dancer and visual artist born into a musical family in Cape Town. Scholtz’s journey into the world of artistry began early. At the age of 5, she embarked on classical piano lessons, followed by formal vocal training with soprano May Abrahams at 16.
Graduating with a Performers Diploma in Opera from UCT, Scholtz’s talents garnered recognition as she performed at esteemed events like the South African Woman of the Year Awards. Her debut album Zillion Miles marked the beginning of her musical discography, followed by several other remarkable releases.
Notably, her collaboration with poet James Mathews resulted in the album Freedom’s Child. A versatile artist, Scholtz’s journey has spanned continents, with highlights including working in Europe and collaborating with the Jazz at Lincoln Centre Orchestra in New York.
4. Micaela Kleinsmith
Micaela Kleinsmith, a talented country singer, has captured hearts with her captivating voice and compelling story. Overcoming childhood challenges of consistent bullying, music became her refuge and a means to forge connections. At the tender age of 14, she began penning her own songs, using her craft to navigate through adversity.
In 2016, she showcased her talent on the stage of Idols South Africa, displaying her musical prowess to a wider audience. This year, 2023, marked a turning point in Kleinsmith’s career as she participated in the inaugural season of the Apple TV+ reality competition series, My Kind of Country.
With guidance from country artist Orville Peck, Kleinsmith flourished over eight episodes, culminating in her well-deserved victory. Beyond her musical journey, Kleinsmith’s personal identity as queer is an important part of her identity, as she stands as a remarkable and relatable queer figure in the music world.
5. 3 Tons of Fun
3 Tons of Fun is an embodiment of joy, positivity and high-energy celebrations that light up any event. A decade ago, this remarkable trio recognised the need for women to showcase their sensuality, remarkable vocals and magnetic presence.
Comprising Sthe Mfuphi, Bulelwa Sakayi and Michelle Thomas, the group’s roots trace back to Cape Town, with Sthe originally hailing from KwaZulu-Natal. Having studied jazz at Natal Technikon and later relocating to Cape Town in 2002, Sthe brought her unique musical flair to the ensemble.
Over the past eight years, 3 Tons of Fun has risen as a beloved all-female ensemble in Cape Town and South Africa, captivating audiences with a dynamic blend of disco classics, beloved pop hits and dance beats. Their electrifying performances have graced various esteemed events.
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Also read:
Picture: Dope Saint Jude / Facebook