Zonke dikana wikipedia

Zonke Dikana, popularly known as Zonke, is a South African singer-songwriter, record producer, and one of the most prominent voices in contemporary African music.

Her career skyrocketed in 2011 with the release of her third studio album, Ina Ethe, which achieved double platinum status and earned her a nomination at the 18th South African Music Awards. Zonke is celebrated for her unique blend of African rhythms and soulful melodies.

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Early Life and Education

Zonke was born on 11 October 1979 in KwaZakhele, Eastern Cape, South Africa. She grew up in a musical household; her father, Vuyisile Dikana, was a drummer for Black Slave and the Flamingo, while her late stepmother, Anneline Malebo, was a singer for the band Joy. Zonke is the younger sister of Lulu Dikana, a fellow musician.

She pursued higher education at the University of the Free State, where she graduated with a degree in Human Resource Management in 1997.

Career

1996–2007: Early Beginnings and Initial Albums

Zonke’s career began in the late 1990s when she collaborated with South African music icons such as Ringo, Joe Nina, and Deborah Fraser. Her songwriting talents gained international recognition when she penned “Africa, My Motherland” for the German band Jazzkantine, later renamed Culture Clan.

In 2004, she released her debut album, Soulitary, under Upper Street Records, with distribution in Germany, Japan, and Italy. In 2007, her second album, Life, Love ‘n Music, was released by Kalawa Jazmee Records, marking her presence in the South African music scene.

2008–2013: Ina Ethe and Give and Take Live

In 2011, Zonke released her third studio album, Ina Ethe, under TMP Records. The album featured hits like “Jik’Izinto” and “Feelings” and was entirely self-produced. It received critical acclaim and went double platinum.

In 2013, Zonke recorded her live album, Give and Take Live, at the Lyric Theatre in Johannesburg. Released by Sony Music Entertainment, it achieved gold certification within two months and won two awards at the 20th South African Music Awards.

2014–2017: Work of Heart

Zonke’s fourth studio album, Work of Heart, was deeply personal and inspired by the loss of her sister, Lulu Dikana. The album, featuring tracks like “Reach It” and “Meet Me in My Dreams,” was released on 11 September 2015. It earned multiple nominations, including at the 15th Metro FM Music Awards and the 22nd South African Music Awards, where it won one category. By 2016, the album had been certified platinum.

In 2017, Zonke won the Best Afro-Soul Album award at the South African Afro Music Awards, further cementing her legacy.

2018–2019: L.O.V.E

On 15 June 2018, Zonke released her fifth studio album, L.O.V.E. The 9-track album featured the platinum-selling single “Tonight” and a collaboration with Kwesta on “Soul to Keep.” L.O.V.E achieved gold status and earned multiple nominations, including Album of the Year and Female Artist of the Year, winning Best R&B/Soul Album.

2020–Present: Enigma Tour and Embo

In 2020, Zonke embarked on the Zonke: The Evergreen in Concert tour, performing across South Africa.

Her album Enigma was completed in 2022, and she released its lead single, “Lady,” in October 2021. The album’s second single, “Oko,” debuted at number one in South Africa.

Zonke released her studio album Embo on 3 November 2023, supported by a national tour.

Tours and Notable Performances

In 2013, Zonke performed at a sold-out concert at the Lyric Theatre in Johannesburg, where she recorded Give and Take Live. She also shared the stage with American soul legend Lionel Richie during his “All The Hits All Night Long” tour in 2016 at the Ticketpro Dome.

Television Appearance

In 2014, Zonke served as a judge on the first season of X Factor South Africa, which aired on SABC 1.

Awards and Nominations

Zonke has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including awards from the South African Music Awards, Metro FM Music Awards, and Channel O Music Video Awards. Her achievements reflect her influence and contribution to the South African music industry.

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