The rise of 'Vathela': meet the creators behind the viral gqom dance challenge
If you are a fan of TikTok dance challenges, you've likely experienced the infectious rhythm and captivating choreography of the “Vathela” challenge.
This vibrant dance has quickly become a global sensation, energising not just dance floors but also social media platforms as countless fans join in, seamlessly replicating its captivating moves.
@moghelingz SiyaVathela unyaka wonke🔥✨ #VathelaChallenge ♬ original sound - Gugu Khathi
Today, songs are often propelled to the forefront of music charts thanks to these dance phenomena, and “Vathela” is a prime example of this transformative trend.
At the heart of this electrifying track is a dynamic collaboration between Durban-based gqom music duos, Campmasters and We Dem Boyz.
The song’s robust beat, characterised by hard-hitting drums and melodic undertones, transcends mere audio delight, creating an atmosphere charged with good vibes that captivate listeners.
@casspernyovest Happy New years from me and mine!!! Wishing yall a beautiful year !!! I appreciation the love you have shown me and my family over the years. To God be the glory Amen !!! #CassperNyovest #ThePhoolos #vathela #Fyp #gqom ♬ original sound - Gugu Khathi
Meet the creators
The South African gqom music scene has been experiencing a shake-up since 2010, thanks to the duo Campmasters, which consists of Mzwandile Khuluse Mzobe and Khumbulani Langa.
They first gained prominence with the hit track “Woza Mshanani” in 2019, which quickly became a summer anthem and featured on a DJ Tira album.
Their debut single “Sya Enterisha”, released the same year under Afrotainment, showcased their talent alongside notable artists such as DJ Tira, Tipcee and Beast.
In 2021, they further established their musical prowess with the release of their first studio album, “Summer Grooves”.
We Dem Boyz features Linda Maphumulo and Kwazi ‘StingRay’ Mngadi.
Maphumulo has a passion for music that resonates within their creations, while Mngadi brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned producer in the gqom scene.
Together, their combined energy has resulted in a sound that is not only distinctive but also firmly rooted in the evolving landscape of South African music.
Since its release in November, “Vathela” has amassed thousands of streams and sparked conversations far beyond the music circles, becoming a staple in various social settings.
In an interview with Independent Media Lifestyle, Maphumulo shared insights into the song's unexpected rise to fame.
“We randomly played the song, originally titled ‘Camp with Dem’, at one of the clubs we were booked at, and people went crazy over it, shouting, ‘iyavathela’ (it hits hard),” Maphumulo noted.
“Because of the overwhelming response, we decided to rename it ‘Vathela’."
The duo felt the energy from the crowd in KwaMashu, where they first showcased it, realising then that they were onto something special.
Reflecting on their incredible journey, Maphumulo admitted, “It still feels like a dream. It was unexpected, but we are very much happy!”
The popularity of the song continues to grow daily, and Maphumulo expressed gratitude for the doors it has opened for them as We Dem Boyz.
Recently, the duos filmed a music video for "Vathela", which is set to premiere in February, creating even more anticipation among fans eager to see their favourite track come to life, visually.