The 2024 National Elections will be remembered as a time when local artists benefited the most. Numerous artists who had previously been overlooked or forgotten were given a golden opportunity to showcase their talents as they embarked on nationwide tours, entertaining political party supporters at various party rallies. In the past, some musicians did not want to perform at some political parties' events as they feared people will believe they were endorsing them.

INCREASED NUMBER OF BOOKINGS

Leading the pack is Maskandi singer Mthandeni "Igcokama Elisha" Manqele, who began performing at different rallies and events starting on January 8 at the ANC's birthday celebration in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. The "Paris" hitmaker gained immense popularity as he was seen performing at the ANC, EFF, Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), and the Inkatha Freedom Party manifestos since March. Following closely behind is Afrotainment boss, producer, and artist DJ Tira, who made appearances at rallies hosted by the Democratic Alliance (DA), EFF, IFP, and the ANC. Other artists who were able to financially gain from the elections include Dr Malinga, Alaska, Fifi Cooper, and Ringo Madlingos who never missed an opportunity to perform at EFF gatherings.

CASHING IN ON RALLIES

The 2024 elections to take place this Wednesday also provided a platform for artists such as the beloved Limpopo favorites Makhadzi, Master KG, controversial Shebeshxt, known for the hit song "Twerka", Gatsheni who gained fame with the maskandi song "Ibhodlela", Khuzani and gospel artist Winnie Mashaba. These artists were featured in the lineups of newly formed MKP, ANC, IFP, and EFF events with Makhadi's last event at the FNB Stadium in Nasrec yesterday at the ANC's Siyanqoba rally. Additionally, actors and MCs such as Khulu Skenjana, Zulu Boy, legendary radio presenter Linda Sibiya, and Jozi FM's Penny Ntuli capitalized on the election season to earn a substantial income. They were consistently included in the lineup of various political party events.