Babalwa Mavuso, known professionally as Babalwa M, is a rising South African singer and songwriter making waves in the amapiano scene. Often celebrated as the “Queen of Private School Amapiano,” she is recognized for her distinctive musical blend, incorporating electronic vibes, soulful vocals, and introspective songwriting, setting her apart in the South African music scene.
Profile Summary
Full Name | Babalwa Mavuso |
Date of Birth | November 29, 1993 |
Place of Birth | Orlando, Johannesburg, South Africa |
Nationality | South African |
Partner | Kelvin Momo |
Children | None |
Occupations | Singer, Songwriter |
Net Worth | $100,000 – $800,000 |
Early Life and Education
Born on November 29, 1993, in Orlando, Johannesburg, Babalwa M spent her childhood in Protea Glen, Soweto.
Growing up in this vibrant community instilled in her a love for music and creative expression. She nurtured her talent by singing in her local church choir.
Before fully dedicating herself to music, Babalwa M pursued her interest in storytelling through studies in journalism, which eventually informed her songwriting style.
Career
Babalwa M officially launched her music career in 2020 with the release of her EP, Bayeke. This project, created in collaboration with Kelvin Momo, featured the song “Feza.” It helped her make a name for herself as a professional musician.
Following the success of Bayeke, Babalwa M released her debut album, Aluta Continua, in October 2021.
Babalwa M gained significant recognition through collaborations and hit singles with renowned producers such as Kelvin Momo, Mas Musiq, Sam Deep, and Musa Keys.
A major milestone in her career came in August 2024 when Apple Music announced Babalwa M as the Isgubhu cover star, highlighting her growing influence.
Shortly after, she released her EP, Pisces, featuring the song “Pholisa” with Kelvin Momo, Stixx, and Baby S.O.N., which became a hit, reaching number 3 on both Local and International Charts. Her studio album, Condour, was released in October 2024.
Following the release, “Bo Thata” featuring Stixx and Nvcho debuted at number 6 on Local Top 10 Streaming Charts, while “Diala Ngothando” featuring MaWhoo and “Mthuthuzeli” with Yallunder debuted at numbers 21 and 23, respectively.
Babalwa M’s music is influenced by a blend of Afro-soul, house music, and amapiano, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Miriam Makeba and Brenda Fassie, as well as amapiano figures like Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa.
Personal Life
Babalwa M was romantically linked to Kelvin Momo, a south African Singer and record producer, however, they reportedly broke up in October 2024.
Before their alleged breakup, Babalwa M stated that working with Kelvin Momo was a “winning formula” for them because they balanced their work with their relationship and shared similar interests.
Babalwa M Net Worth
Babalwa M’s net worth is estimated to be from the range of $100,000 – $800,000.
Discography
Albums
- Bayeke (2020)
- Aluta Continua (2021)
- Pisces (2024)
- Condour (2024)
Singles
- “Emakhosini” (Babalwa M featuring De Mthuda, Sam Deep) (2023)
- “Maye Maye” (Kelvin Momo, Babalwa M featuring Azana, Stixx) (2023)
- “Thobela” (Stixx, Babalwa M) (2024)
- “Melusi” (Mzizi, Babalwa M featuring Stixx) (2024)