Unapologetically queer: The Billionaires redefining South African music with pride

The Billionaires duo, Ngcebo Mdima and Karabo Motlogelwa, have spent the last two years establishing themselves as a queer pair who are unapologetically themselves. 

They embrace their individuality and unity in an environment that often demands conformity.

Their authenticity sets them apart, and their upcoming single, “Nyamazane", featuring vocalist Sfundo and producers DJ Sniper and MaBzar, continues that trajectory.

The song, set for release on Friday, September 5, arrives ahead of the festive season.

According to the duo, "Nyamazane" is more than a 3-Step anthem.

“It is a celebration of those who refuse to let their adversities deter them from pursuing their dreams. It speaks to the resilient spirit in those who choose not to give up, regardless of the hurdles they face in life,” they said.

As members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Mdima and Motlogelwa have faced rejection, stigmatisation and marginalisation. They persevered, and through “Nyamazane”, they aim to send a message of hope to others facing similar challenges.

“Things do change over time,” they added. 

“In celebration of 30 years of democracy and inclusion in our country, the single takes the message of inclusion further by imploring entertainment managers and promoters to give equal treatment to all DJs. The song is a movement that celebrates perseverance and self-expression,” the duo said. 

In a conversation with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, they explained how their music contributes to conversations about inclusion and representation in the South African music scene. 

“As a queer duo, our music contributes to a society that is inclusive and welcoming. By being in the music industry, we are advocating for other queer people to also have a platform to express their talents and share their craft with the world.” 

When asked about experiences that inspired this message, they said: “There are times when we don’t get bookings, and it feels like our sexuality is what stops some promoters from booking us. Some promoters are sceptical when they learn that we are a queer couple."

"Often, they only consider us after reviewing our catalogues online or watching our music videos on TV. With this song, we want to show that nothing will stop us from pursuing our passion for music. We will continue advocating for equal opportunities for all queer people.”

On how embracing their individuality has shaped their music and performances, the duo said: “It was scary at first because we had never been so open and bold in our queerness.

"Now that we are in the music industry, we are more aware of the challenges queer people face, and we are eager to release music that pushes us into spaces where we were previously not accepted."

"Industry leaders need to consider opening doors for the queer community. Pride Month is coming, and we want to be booked not only in LGBTQIA+ establishments but also in mainstream spaces.” 

Looking beyond “Nyamazane”, the duo outlined their goals for the year: “We want to build visibility for our brand and create events for other artists, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, to build a stronger and more accepting society.

"We also aim to secure more bookings for the festive season.”