10 South African songs to add to your Braai Day playlist
A proper South African braai requires a playlist that spans generations, genres and languages, bringing everyone from Gogo to the kids to their feet.
Mastering the art of the perfect South African braai is simple.
You need the right cut of meat, the perfect heat on the coals, a side dish of your choice and, most importantly, the right tunes to keep the fire and the party going.
Of course, tuning into to KZN’s No. 1 hit music station goes without saying, but we’ve also curated the ultimate Braai Day playlist that you and your guests can turn up, dance to and keep on repeat until the coals turn to ash.
A proper Mzansi braai requires a playlist that spans generations, genres and languages, bringing everyone from Gogo to the kids to their feet.
If you’re firing up the coals on Heritage Day, make sure you add these 10 South African classics to your playlist.
The ultimate Heritage Day playlist
Jabulani – PJ Powers and Hotline
There’s no better way to start a braai than with this classic sing-along hit by PJ Powers. True to its name, Jabulani (meaning 'be happy'), this song will get your afternoon off to the perfect start and is guaranteed to have everyone singing around the fire.
Kaptein - Kurt Darren
It’s physically impossible to stand still when Kaptein plays. By the time the chorus hits, the braai tongs will be transformed into a microphone and the backyard will turn into the ultimate sokkie dance floor.
Burn Out – Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse
This '80s classic remains one of Mzansi’s favourites. This smooth, soulful groove is the perfect backdrop as the wood catches fire and the first drinks are poured.
Nkalakatha – Mandoza
Whether you’re at a beach house in Durban or a backyard in Pretoria, Mandoza’s legendary anthem transcends all boundaries. The moment the opening basslines hit, every single person stands up and gets down!
Special Star – Mango Groove
Nothing feels quite like home like the pennywhistle intro of Mango Groove. Special Star is pure joy wrapped in a song that instantly transports you to sunny South African afternoons, laughter with friends, and good times around the fire.
Make the Circle Bigger – JR featuring HHP
Literally the ultimate order at any gathering. JR and the late HHP created an anthem that forces everyone to make room for more friends and family around the fire.
Fiasco – TKZee
Kwaito royalty, TKZee defined an entire era of South African music. ‘Fiasco’ brings that 90’s nostalgia that instantly lifts the energy around the braai. It’s the ultimate soundtrack for when the coals are glowing and the drinks are flowing.
Impi – Johnny Clegg and Juluka
Few songs capture the spirit of South Africa like Impi by the late Johnny Clegg and Juluka. Like all the classics on this list, it’s a song that transcends race, age and culture, embodying the true spirit of Mzansi.
Ndihamba Nawe – Mafikizolo
‘Ndihamba Nawe’ by Mafikizolo is a classic Afro-pop anthem that gets everyone showing off their best dance moves next to the braai.
Sister Bettina (South Africa’s unofficial anthem) – Mgarimbe
Dubbed South Africa’s unofficial national anthem, few tracks get a crowd on their feet faster than Mgarimbe’s ‘Sister Bettina’. Save this one for later in the evening when the meat is resting and the atmosphere hits high energy levels.
HOW TO LISTEN TO EAST COAST RADIO
1. Listen to East Coast Radio on the FM (frequency modulation) spectrum between 94 and 95 FM on your radio.
2. Listen live to ECR by clicking here or download the ECR App (iOS/Android).
3. Listen to East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet
4. Switch to the audio bouquet on your OpenView decoder and browse to channel 606.
5. Listen to us on Amazon Alexa
Follow us on social media:
· TikTok