Rich lists

Top 20 Richest South African Musicians in 2025: Who’s Really Making Bank?

Published

2 months ago

June 27, 2025

Chiraag

From Grammy-winning DJs to gospel queens and rap moguls, South African artists are doing more than topping charts – they’re shaping industries and building impressive fortunes. Here’s the definitive list of the 20 richest musicians in the country, updated for 2025, making waves both locally and internationally.

Also read: 9 South African Women on Forbes Africa’s 2025 30 Under 50

1. Black Coffee – $60M

Nkosinathi “Black Coffee” Maphumulo tops the list as South Africa’s richest musician. His global career includes multiple Grammy wins, international residencies, and high-profile performances. Beyond music, he runs Soulistic Music and holds stakes in tech ventures, solidifying his net worth at approximately R1.1 billion.

2. Steve Hofmeyr – $19M

A household name in Afrikaans entertainment, Hofmeyr’s income stems from music, acting, publishing, and ongoing album royalties, maintaining a steady presence despite occasional controversies.

3. AKA (late) – $12M

Though he passed in 2023, AKA’s legacy endures through streaming revenue, brand partnerships, and estate management, sustaining his position as one of South Africa’s top-earning rap icons.

Image 1: NewsDay Zimbabwe

4. Die Antwoord – $10M

Ninja and Yolandi Visser’s unique counterculture aesthetic earned them global fame and income. Despite controversies, their distinct style continues to generate consistent revenue.

5. DJ Maphorisa – $6M

A prolific producer behind many Amapiano and Afro-pop hits, DJ Maphorisa owns a record label, produces chart-topping singles, and tours internationally.

6. Rebecca Malope – $5M

With over 10 million albums sold, a longstanding television presence, and numerous awards – including the national Order of Ikhamanga – gospel legend Malope remains South Africa’s richest female artist.

7. Juanita Du Plessis – $5M

A stalwart of Afrikaans pop music, Juanita’s multi-platinum album sales and decades-long career have made her a significant earner in the industry.

8. Benjamin Dube – $5M

Gospel star, mentor, and ministry leader Benjamin Dube rounds out the gospel trio at the top, leveraging music, education, and inspirational speaking engagements.

9. Cassper Nyovest – $3M

Rapper and entrepreneur Cassper Nyovest earns from music, his Family Tree record label, Billiato spirit brand, and sneaker line, showcasing his diverse business ventures.

10. Leon Schuster – $3M

Known primarily for comedic films and spoof songs, Schuster’s nostalgic appeal and touring contribute to his notable presence in music wealth charts.

South African celebrity net worths 2025, gospel artist Rebecca Malope fortune, Nasty C Def Jam artist, Mafikizolo Afro-pop duo 2025, Steve Hofmeyr Afrikaans singer wealth, DJ Sbu MoFaya Coca-Cola deal

Image 2: News24

11. DJ Sbu – $3M

Radio personality turned entrepreneur Sibusiso Leope launched the MoFaya energy drink and sold a major stake to Coca-Cola, proving he is more than just a DJ.

12. DJ Euphonik – $2.5M

A staple in house music and radio for over two decades, Euphonik also invests in property and commercial collaborations.

13. Oskido – $2M

A pioneer of kwaito and amapiano, co-founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, and restaurateur, Oskido continues to influence South Africa’s music scene and charts.

14. Nasty C – $2M

Signed by Def Jam and rising in global recognition, this young MC combines award-winning music with expanding international opportunities.

15. Khuli Chana – $2M

A Motswako veteran with a postgraduate degree in innovation, Khuli Chana exemplifies how education and music success can go hand in hand.

16. Da L.E.S – $2M

Known for fashion and club music, Da L.E.S leveraged his ties with AKA and a distinctive studio sound to diversify his income streams.

17. Mafikizolo – $2M

This dynamic duo continues to sell out shows and albums worldwide, defying trends and staying relevant for over 25 years.

South African music millionaires 2025 list, richest DJs in South Africa, 2025 wealth ranking, top gospel musicians in South Africa net worth, AKA estate earnings 2025, posthumous streaming revenue, Black Coffee tech investments and Grammy awards, Cassper Nyovest music business empire in SA, Oskido music pioneer South Africa 2025, Die Antwoord net worth controversy, Zahara Loliwe platinum album success, Hugh Masekela jazz legacy and international royalties, Joburg ETC

Image 3: News24

18. Riky Rick (late) – $1.5M

Fashion and music entrepreneur Riky Rick left a lasting legacy of hit tracks and a global brand presence before his untimely passing in 2022.

19. Zahara (late) – $1.5M

Her platinum career and soulful hits like “Loliwe” cement Zahara as a beloved and lucrative figure even after her passing in late 2023.

20. Hugh Masekela (late) – $1.5M

A jazz ambassador whose international collaborations and classic works continue to generate royalties worldwide.

Why This Ranking Matters

This list highlights more than just music sales – it underscores the importance of brand ownership, market expansion, and legacy building. Whether in gospel, rap, or dance music, these artists exemplify how creativity combined with diversification can transform culture into capital.