In a special takeover of our YVNG & FREE playlist—our spotlight on South Africa’s next-gen superstars—Capetonian fashion designer and curator Lukhanyo Mdingi celebrates the hitmakers who are forging the country’s new sonic identity, and the legends who continue to inspire. “My taste for music is incredibly eclectic and diverse,” Mdingi tells Apple Music. “I'm forever a ’90s kid who grew up with all the iconic classics that brought a groove to our step, which led to the rise of SA house in the early 2000s—so I get really excited when I think about contemporary, newer artists of today. The spirit of South African artists is unmatched. Our lyrics, our rhythm, our finesse—we’re everything.” Here, you’ll find tracks from Desire Marea, Muneyi, Thandiswa, M’du, Faka, Bongeziwe Mabandla, and more, alongside classics from Lebo Mathosa, Mshoza, DJ Master Jam, and Freshlyground. “I love a mood, and at times I feel as though I live my life as if it were a movie, layered with revolving scenes of triumphs, battles, and, most importantly, love,” Mdingi explains. “My life is filled with things that feel contradictory: I’m hot and cold, I'm fearless and scared, I'm everything and nothing at the same time. [With each of these songs] there’s a sentiment that sets the tone of so many chapters of my life. Knowing who you are is fundamental to telling your truths and your point of view. This is indicative within each of these artists' offerings—their voices and tailored words matter, and their presence continuously adds to the landscape of our culture.”