Bathabise Biyela, better known by her stage name Thabsie, is a prominent South African singer and songwriter celebrated for her rich, soulful voice and compelling music. She gained widespread recognition with the hit track Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe, which achieved multi-platinum status in South Africa. Thabsie’s music is a fusion of R&B, neo-soul, Afrobeat, and pop, making her a standout artist in the South African music scene.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Bathabise Biyela |
| Date of Birth | November 5, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Occupation | Singer-songwriter |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1.5 million (2025) |
Early Life and Education
Born on November 5, 1991, in Cape Town, South Africa, Thabsie grew up in Somerset West. She developed her love for music early on, singing in church as a child.
She pursued higher education at the University of Johannesburg, earning a Bachelor of Commerce degree in economics.
Before fully dedicating herself to music, she worked as an investment banker in Johannesburg.
Career
While still working in banking, Thabsie served as a backup vocalist for leading South African artists such as Cassper Nyovest, Donald, Black Motion, Khuli Chana, and Proverb. She also featured in the 2015 collaborative anti-xenophobia track No More alongside several artists.
In 2016, she made the bold decision to leave her banking career and focus entirely on music.
Her major breakthrough came in 2017 when she featured on Kwesta’s hit Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe, which has amassed over 3.2 million views on YouTube and was certified 119× Platinum in South Africa.
That year, she released her debut album Songs About You, which included popular singles such as African Queen (featuring JR) and Ubuyanini, both of which earned Platinum and Gold certifications.
Thabsie has since released several successful singles including Cry (featuring Kid X), Sphesihle, Forever, and has collaborated with artists like Mthunzi and Lucky Keyz. Her music often touches on themes of love, cultural pride, and social issues.
Personal Life
Thabsie is wedded to Thando Vokwana. They celebrated their union with a stunning traditional ceremony in 2015.
She has shared that her husband was her sole confidant before she left her banking job to pursue music full-time.
Her family, particularly her father, has been a strong source of support throughout her journey.
Thabsie Net Worth
As of 2025, Thabsie’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1.5 million, earned through music sales, live performances, songwriting, and brand endorsements.
Discography
- Songs About You (2017)
- Notable Singles:
- Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe (with Kwesta)
- African Queen (feat. JR)
- Ubuyanini
- Cry (feat. Kid X)
- Sphesihle (feat. Mthunzi)
- Forever (2022)
- Moyeni (feat. Thabsie)
- Dance The Pain Away (2025)
- Bells N Whistles (2024)
- Same Place (2024)
Awards and Nominations
- 2017: Won Song of the Year at South African Hip Hop Awards for Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe
- 2018: Nominated for Newcomer of the Year at South African Music Awards
- 2018: Nominated for Best R&B / Soul / Reggae Album at South African Music Awards
- 2019: Nominated for Record of the Year (fan-voted) for Macala
